A specialized waterproofing treatment made of finely graded iron aggregate, a chemical oxidizer, and cement. When mixed with water and applied to concrete, the iron particles rust and expand, forcing the material deep into the pores and capillaries of the substrate. This creates a dense, permanent barrier against hydrostatic pressure on the negative side of foundation walls.
We need to prep the elevator pit walls for metallic waterproofing before the water table rises.
Because it relies on oxidation, this material requires moisture to cure properly and will turn a distinct rust color once activated.
Related terms
Negative side
The interior face of a wall or slab, opposite the water, where waterproofing must resist water pushing it off.
Hydrostatic pressure
Pressure from standing groundwater against a wall or slab, rising with the depth of water above that point.
Crystalline waterproofing
A cementitious treatment whose chemicals grow insoluble crystals inside concrete pores and cracks to block water.