Water swellable bars, also known as waterstop bars or hydrophilic waterstops, are used in construction to provide a waterproof seal in concrete joints or construction joints where water ingress needs to be prevented. Here's how they're used and where they're applied:
1. Concrete Construction Joints Water swellable bars are commonly used in construction joints in concrete structures such as basements, tunnels, foundations, and retaining walls. These bars are placed within the joint to create a watertight seal, preventing water from seeping through the gaps between concrete sections.
2. Expansion Joints In structures with expansion joints, such as bridges, dams, and large buildings, water swellable bars can be utilized to seal these joints against water infiltration. These bars accommodate movement while still maintaining a waterproof barrier.
3. Pipe Penetrations Water swellable bars can be applied around pipe penetrations through concrete walls or slabs to prevent water from leaking through these openings.
4. Below-Grade Structures In below-grade construction, such as underground parking garages or utility tunnels, water swellable bars are used to seal joints and connections, ensuring that water does not penetrate into these spaces.
5. Swimming Pools and Water Features Water swellable bars can be used in the construction of swimming pools, ponds, and water features to create watertight seals around joints and connections, preventing leaks and ensuring water containment.
6. Subway and Tunnel Construction In underground construction projects, such as subway tunnels and sewage systems, water swellable bars are applied to seal joints and connections, preventing water ingress and maintaining the structural integrity of the tunnels.
Overall, water swellable bars are versatile waterproofing solutions used in various construction applications where preventing water ingress is critical. They provide an effective and reliable means of ensuring the durability and integrity of concrete structures exposed to water.