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Bentonite waterproofing systems have been on the United States market for nearly 80 years. A primary reason for their longevity has been technological advances that have made them economical and easy to apply. The traditional form of bentonite was extremely labor intensive and required skilled workmen for precise applications. The material was sprayed or troweled onto the substrate, which sometimes led to inconsistent application thickness.
Trowel and sprayed bentonite applications are rarely completed anymore.
Bentonite is granulated smectite clay that provides waterproofing capabilities by swelling to nearly 15 times its dry volume when it absorbs water. The swelling is caused by the material’s molecular structural form, which is comprised of expansive sheets that can expand based on the grading and clay compositions. Bentonite sheets typically contain 85 percent to 90 percent montmorillonite clay and a maximum of 15 percent natural sediments such as volcanic ash.
In recent times advanced technology of polymer chemistry has increased the use of bentonite by making it a more versatile material. It is currently offered in four forms:
1. Prefabricated panels.
2. Prefabricated geotextile sheets.
3. High density polyethylene sheets.
4. Trowelable mixtures used for detailing.
Bentonite waterproofing systems offer the following advantages:
• Easy installation.
• No VOC restrictions.
• Safe application - even at extreme temperatures.
• Easy leak detection.
• Can bridge cracks up to 1/4 inch.
• Adapts to complex geographic shapes.
Bentonite waterproofing systems have the following disadvantages:
• Need for constant (high) hydrostatic pressure.
• Lack of dependable resistance to vapor migration.
• Limited options for future repairs or replacement.
The increased use of bentonite as a waterproofing system stems from the versatility of the material and the fact that it can be used in difficult conditions. Bentonite is not suited for all applications; however, in it is well matched for intricate conditions such as blindside applications in deep excavations. The material is also commonly used in tunnels and subways and has a long history of waterproofing New York City basements. Application is not recommended in areas sensitive to moisture infiltration.
The primary form of application is with prefabricated panels or sheets. Installation for slabs-onground are completed by simply laying the panels or sheets on the substrate and lapping the panel joints. On vertical surfaces, the panels or sheets are nailed to the substrate. Application over concrete substrates requires a smooth surface with no deformations or shark fins. All honeycombs, indentations or rock pockets should be repaired with trowelable bentonite prior to panel or sheet application. Trowelable bentonite is also applied at all penetrations and bottoms of walls. Panel or sheet laps must be taped if precipitation is likely or if the material will not be backfilled the same day.
Backfill should be completed immediately after installation. Installation is typically completed in 8-foot to 10-foot lifts with backfill after every course. The backfill should be compacted to a minimum of 85 percent protector density and applied within 2 inches of the top of the panels or sheets. Backfill should be placed directly against the panels or sheets or a protection course (film or insulation) is required to prevent moisture from reaching the bentonite. Once the backfill is complete, hydration of the benonite is required.
For blindside applications, benonite can be applied over concrete, steel, lagging walls, slurry, retaining walls, and diaphragm walls retaining earth. Most applications simply require nailing of the sheet or panel to the substrate. The one difference with these applications is the requirement of block outs in walls for tieback plates or rakers. The details for these block outs should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
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CLAY-TITE™
Waterproofing Membrane
DESCRIPTION
CLAY-TITE is a dual layer waterproofing consisting of virgin HDPE (20 mil), sodium bentonite, and a protective layer consisting of a non-woven polypropylene. The HDPE provides the first layer of waterproofing, while the bentonite’s self-sealing capabilities ensure positive puncture protection under hydrostatic conditions. The polypropylene fabric protects the bentonite from direct installation of shotcrete.
USES
Designed for use below-grade, CLAY-TITE is equally effective in installations where the waterproofing is pre-applied prior to pouring of the concrete or when used for standard applications. CLAY-TITE can be used in both vertical and horizontal applications.
FEATURES/BENEFITS
PACKAGING
3.5′ x 21.5′ (1.1 m x 6.6 m) or 75 SF (7 m2) standard rolls.
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STORAGE AND HANDLING
Protect from moisture. Store on skid or pallet; cover with polyethylene or tarp.
APPLICATION
Surface Preparation … Surface must be smooth, sound, and void-free prior to installation of CLAY-TITE. All openings >1″ (25.4 mm) must be detailed using plywood, grout, or alternate method to provide a sound substrate. Remove all sharp protrusion greater than 1/4″ (6.4 mm)
For areas in which the ground water has a high sodium level (sea water or brackish water), contact W. R. MEADOWS technical services for recommendations. CLAY-TITE HSR from W. R. MEADOWS may be required in this installation. A water test may be needed to determine the suitability of the membrane for use in specific ground conditions.
Detailing … W. R. MEADOWS offers CLAY-TITE MASTIC and CLAY-TITE ADHESIVE for seam laps. CLAY-TITE MASTIC is to be used in situations below the water table or when temperatures are going to be below 40° F (4° C). CLAY-TITE ADHESIVE is to be used when above the water table and temperatures are above 40° F (4° C). In most applications, CLAY-TITE MASTIC is the preferred product.
Blindside Installation … Ensure that surface to be waterproofed is sound and void-free. The use of MEL-DRAIN™ 5035 from W. R. MEADOWS is recommended for all applications. Mechanically attach MEL-DRAIN to soil retention. CLAY-TITE can be installed either vertically or horizontally with the HDPE surface towards the drainage board. Mechanically affix CLAY-TITE across the top every 20″ (508 mm). Lap all seams a minimum of 4″ (101.6 mm). If installed in the horizontal direction, ensure that seams are shingled in a manner to shed water. All seams should be nailed every 2′ (0.6 m) and a staple placed between the nails. Apply CLAY-TITE MASTIC from W. R. MEADOWS over all fasteners. For detailed instructions, refer to CLAY-TITE BLINDSIDE INSTALLATION GUIDELINE.
Application Video
Backfilled Wall … Install CLAY-TITE with the bentonite side towards the concrete. At the top of the membrane, affix TERMINATION BAR from W. R. MEADOWS. All lap seams must overlap at least 1.5″ (38 mm). Make sure to shingle all overlaps to shed water. Mechanically attach all seams at 24″ (609.6 mm) on center and apply PMPC TAPE from W. R. MEADOWS on joint. For detailed instructions, refer to CLAY-TITE BACKFILLED WALL INSTALLATION GUIDELINES.
Underslab … CLAY-TITE is designed to act both as a waterproofing and vapor barrier membrane when installed underslab. Place membrane bentonite side up on the mud slab or over compacted sub-grade. Overlap and stagger seams at least 4″ (101.6 mm). Protect from flooding prior to pouring of concrete. Refer to ACI 302.1R-04: Chapter 4 – Site Preparation and Placing Environment for sub-grade preparation. For detailed instructions, refer to CLAY-TITE UNDERSLAB INSTALLATION GUIDELINES.
Application Video
Penetrations and Protrusions … Fill void around penetration with CLAY-TITE GRANULAR PACK from W. R. MEADOWS or CLAY-TITE MASTIC. Trowel CLAY-TITE MASTIC covering the penetration. Using a 6″ (152.4 mm) cut strip of CLAY-TITE, form a collar around the penetration and hold in place with fasteners. Install WATERSTOP EC from W. R. MEADOWS around the penetration.
PRECAUTIONS
CLAY-TITE installation must be confined by a minimum of 24 lb./ft.2 (117.2 kg/m2). Keep CLAY-TITE dry; protect from exposure to the elements. Do not install in areas of ponding water or ice. For installation temperatures below 40° F (4° C), use CLAY-TITE MASTIC in place of CLAY-TITE ADHESIVE. In areas under constant hydrostatic head conditions, all joints and seams are to be detailed using CLAY-TITE MASTIC.
TECHNICAL DATA
Property Test Method CLAY-TITE Results Membrane White 20-mil Virgin Resin HDPE Bentonite Sodium Montmorillonite Total Thickness 150 Mils Weight 1 lb./ft.2 (4.89 kg/m2) Puncture Resistance ASTM E154, Section 10 170 lb. (77.1 kg) Tensile Strength, Membrane ASTM D638 MD: 3660 psi (25.2 MPa)2021-07
For the Quirk Hall project, I would like it to be known that we didn’t consider any other products except for W. R. MEADOWS. I had requested W. R. MEADOWS in the project specifications—and they were able to meet our needs with CLAY-TITE.”
John Ritchie
DiClemente Siegel Design, Inc.
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