13 Dec Eliminating High-Carbon-Emission Products in Below-Grade Waterproofing
Globally, numerous construction projects persist in utilizing traditional, high-carbon-releasing concrete waterproofing products, such as membranes, for subsurface applications. In this issue, we delve into the pressing need to transition away from these products and spotlight a validated, more eco-friendly alternative. This groundbreaking solution not only improves the resilience of concrete structures but also greatly lessens the carbon footprint (CFP) of construction endeavors, paving the way for a more sustainable and effective future in the industry.
The construction sector holds considerable potential to mitigate its ecological impact by substituting high-carbon-emission materials, particularly in subsurface waterproofing. Subsurface, or underground, waterproofing is essential for safeguarding concrete structures exposed to wetness and hydrostatic pressure. Nonetheless, conventional waterproofing solutions, such as bitumen, PVC, TPO, and EPDM membranes, substantially contribute to carbon emissions due to their manufacturing processes and their finite lifespan.
The Carbon Footprint of Traditional Waterproofing Materials
Traditional waterproofing materials are petroleum-derived and demand energy-intensive production processes, leading to elevated carbon footprints (CFPs). Their limited durability also necessitates frequent replacements, further exacerbating their environmental ramifications. Below is a contrast of their CFPs:
- Bitumen: 13.40 kg eq CO₂/m²
- PVC: 20.25 kg eq CO₂/m²
- TPO: 7.13 kg eq CO₂/m²
- EPDM: 23.04 kg eq CO₂/m²
These statistics emphasize the urgent necessity for alternative waterproofing technologies that are both sustainable and resilient. - A Low-Carbon Solution: PENETRON ADMIX
Crystalline, self-repairing concrete extends the longevity of structures by minimizing the demand for repairs and replacements, further diminishing the environmental impact throughout the structure’s lifespan.
Moreover, decreasing the use of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), a significant contributor to CO₂ emissions, is critical for lowering construction’s carbon footprint. This can be accomplished by integrating Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) like fly ash, slag, and silica fume, which substitute part of the cement in concrete mixtures. PENETRON ADMIX is entirely compatible with SCMs and enhances the efficacy, durability, and lifespan of these low-carbon concrete mixes, surpassing conventional durability mixes as per BS 8500-1 standards.
Environmental and Long-Term Benefits
PENETRON ADMIX, a crystalline waterproofing admixture, offers an innovative, low-carbon substitute to standard surface-applied waterproofing membranes. When added to concrete during the batching process, PENETRON ADMIX transforms concrete into a self-healing, robust, and waterproof structure.
The carbon footprint of PENETRON ADMIX is considerably lower than that of conventional materials. For a 0.25 mm thick layer of concrete, its CFP is about 1.22 kg eq CO₂/m², and even at the highest dosage for high-performance concrete (4.0 kg/m³), the CFP is only 4.9 kg eq CO₂/m³—a mere fraction of the emissions linked with traditional membranes.
Proven Sustainability Impact
Research demonstrates that PENETRON ADMIX-treated concrete can cut carbon emissions by an average of 20% and potentially reach 27% when compared to traditional waterproofing techniques. This translates to notable reductions in CO₂ per square meter of construction, rendering it a distinctly more sustainable option.
Cost and Lifecycle Advantages
By replacing traditional membranes with crystalline waterproofing technology, construction endeavors not only contribute to enhanced environmental conservation but also lower expenses throughout the project’s lifecycle by minimizing maintenance and replacement requirements.
In conclusion, PENETRON ADMIX is a proven, low-carbon, and high-performance solution that meets both environmental and economic challenges in subsurface concrete waterproofing.