Type of structure – dam, reservoir, tunnel, canal system, etc.
Water pressure – static, dynamic, intermittent.
Chemical composition of water – pH, salt content, organic compounds.
Construction material – concrete, earth-fill, composite.
BEST WATERPROOFING TYPES FOR HYDRAULI
STRUCTURES
Modified Bitumen Membranes
Commonly used for pools, reservoirs, canals.
Water-resistant and relatively easy to install.
Top manufacturers:
Soprema (France)
BMI Icopal (Germany)
Bauder
2. PVC and TPO Membranes
Resistant to UV, chemicals, and biological growth.
Used in tunnels, underground reservoirs, dam structures.
Top companies:
Sika (Switzerland)
Flag / Soprema Group
Fatra (Czech Republic)
3. Crystalline Waterproofing (Capillary-active)
Applied as an internal coating – reacts with concrete to seal pores permanently.
Ideal for concrete structures, manholes, pumping stations.
Manufacturers:
Penetron (USA / Germany / Russia)
Xypex (Canada)
Köster (Germany)
4. Bentonite Membranes (Geosynthetic Clay Liners)
Used in earth dams, ponds, landfills.
Activated upon contact with water.
Top brands:
Voltex (CETCO)
BentoShield
NAUE Bentofix
5. Injectable Waterproofing (PU / Acrylic Resins)
Used for leak sealing in tunnels, joints, manholes.
Applied without excavation.
Companies:
MC-Bauchemie (Germany)
De Neef (Sika Group)
Remmers
✅ WHICH ONE
TO CHOOSE?
Type of structure Recommended waterproofing Note
Concrete reservoir Crystalline + PVC membrane Dual-layer protection
Tunnel TPO membrane + injectable backup For dynamic water
Earth dam Bentonite membrane Soil contact
Open canal Bitumen or TPO membrane UV resistance
Retaining wall Crystalline + drainage Against capillary moisture
Note:
For every application, surface preparation and proper installation are just as
important as material choice. Trial fields and water-tightness testing are strongly
recommended before commissioning.