What is the best waterproofing application and materials in tunnel construction or even buildings below the ground?

Waterproofing applications and materials for tunnel and underground building:

Introduction: Generally waterproofing system is most important for the closed type of construction in tunnel and underground building.

Waterproofing materials used in tunnel and underground building construction are listed below;

1. Thermoplastic Membranes like PVC, TPO or polyethene (HDPE)
2. Waterproofing membranes
3. Waterproof concrete

Applications of waterproofing in tunnel and underground building are given below;

1. Waterproofing system separates the subsequent bearing structure from the excavation support in order to avoid constraining forces
2. It also protects the inner shell from possible aggressive underground water
3. It protects the traffic area from underground water

Many types of waterproofing elements, admixtures, and materials are available in the market. Following are some of the examples

1. Rubberized asphalt
2. PVC membrane of waterproofing
3. Polyurethane
4. Cementitious coating
5. Bituminous coating or membrane

Waterproofing of tunnel is the challenging task of the tunnelling industry. Following are the methods of waterproofing used in the tunnelling,

1. Waterproofing by applied spray
2. Waterproofing by conventional sheets (sheets jointed by welding)
3. Use of hybrid materials like waterproof concrete, admixtures mixed Portland cement and aggregate. In this case, admixtures make the concrete water-resistant.
4. Use of PVC, rubber materials, Vimal PVC materials is globally accepted.

Waterproofing in the tunnel is aim to give basic support and it makes the inner structure of waterproof for the age of fast and reliable transportation without any type of hazardous situations.