Chryso supplies special sealing solutions for concrete and bridge structures

As infrastructure networks age and traffic demands increase, the long-term protection of bridges, overpasses, culverts and other critical concrete structures is a top priority for engineers and contractors.

Within the Saint-Gobain Group, GCP’s internationally proven waterproofing technologies – available in South Africa through Chryso Southern Africa – provide advanced solutions for both new build and refurbishment projects. These products, including BITUTHENE® 5000 and ELIMINATOR® Bridge Deck Waterproofing, are designed to extend service life, improve safety and reduce costly maintenance on critical transportation infrastructure.

BITUTHENE® 5000 is a heavy-duty composite membrane designed for use beneath hot-applied asphalt concrete overlays. It contains a moisture and water resistant rubberized asphalt layer reinforced with a puncture and heat resistant polypropylene mesh, providing dimensional stability, flexibility and excellent adhesion. The membrane is supplied in rolls with a protective release paper for easy handling and is cold applied so no heating or hot bitumen bedding is required. It is suitable for both new construction and repair applications and provides an effective seal for bridges, overpasses and other transportation structures as well as parking decks. In rehabilitation projects, BITUTHENE® S5000 strips are recommended for the rehabilitation of concrete pavements with asphalt overlays to prevent premature deterioration due to reflection cracking and subgrade erosion. The membrane's high water resistance combined with its ability to remain flexible even at extreme operating temperatures ensures performance even during harsh winter driving over small cracks. For structures where detailing is important, BITUTHENE® liquid membranes and BITUTHENE® 5000 mastic can be used to seal edges, edges and overlaps to ensure complete waterproofing.

“BITUTHENE 5000 was developed with the realities of modern infrastructure projects in mind,” says Andries Janse van Rensburg, Business Development Manager – Specialty Building Materials at Chryso Southern Africasays. “Its robust construction, flexibility and proven ability to withstand extreme conditions make it a proven choice for protecting concrete structures from water ingress and damage. The fact that it is cold applied means a faster, safer and more consistent installation on site.”

The ELIMINATOR® Bridge Deck Waterproofing membrane offers equally impressive performance for steel and concrete bridges that are constantly exposed to water, chlorides and frost – conditions that can lead to structural deterioration and even failure. This cold spray applied system is based on advanced ESSELAC® resin technology and creates a fully bonded composite layer between the bridge deck, waterproof membrane and asphalt pavement. The result is a membrane that can withstand harsh climate conditions and heavy traffic loads while maintaining its adhesion and integrity. ELIMINATOR® can be used in virtually any climate and cures in as little as one hour, even in high humidity or low temperatures, eliminating costly weather delays and allowing greater flexibility in scheduling. A two-tone application process enables on-site quality assurance, while the membrane's ability to withstand asphalt surface temperatures of up to 250°C eliminates overcoating time constraints and accelerates project delivery. “ELIMINATOR has a global track record of protecting thousands of bridges over decades of use,” adds Janse van Rensburg. “Its rapid curing time, adaptability to almost any climate and long durability are significant advantages for contractors and highway authorities who cannot afford extended closures or recurring maintenance. It is a cost-effective way to protect the significant investments in these important structures.” Both BITUTHENE® 5000 and ELIMINATOR® have been proven on thousands of bridge and concrete structures worldwide, providing engineers and contractors with reliable, long-lasting waterproofing systems. Delivered by Chryso Southern Africa in South Africa, these GCP technologies protect critical infrastructure from water intrusion, chloride attack and freeze-thaw damage, extending service life, increasing safety and reducing long-term maintenance and repair costs.