Ashghal – Specification for Waterproofing of Cut and Cover Tunnel and Underpass Highway Structures

ASHGHAL
Interim Advice Note No. 004

Specification for Waterproofing of Cut and Cover Tunnel and

Underpass Highway Structures
Revision No. A1
EXW-GENL-0000-PE-KBR-IP-00004

Summary
This Interim Advice Note (IAN) provides information and guidance on the specification to be adopted
for waterproofing of cut and cover tunnel and underpass highway structures which are designed to
exclude ground water. Typically this will include tunnels and underpasses that are below or close to
the water table.

This IAN takes immediate effect. It is applicable only to cut and cover tunnels and underpass
highway structures which are designed to exclude ground water and supersedes Section 5, Part 14,
Clause 14.3 of the Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS) 2010 for such structures. The following
shall be noted:
 Section 5, Part 14, Clause 14.3 remains relevant, replaced by new Clause 14.8 only for cut
and cover tunnel and underpass highway structures which are designed to exclude ground
water.
 The new Section 5, Part 14, Clause 14.8 is only applicable to cut and cover tunnel and
underpass highway structures which are designed to exclude ground water.

This document supersedes IAN 004 Rev 0 dated February 2012. Third parties not working on
Ashghal projects make use of this document at their own risk. Paper copies of this document are
uncontrolled. Refer to Ashghal’s website for the most recent version.

A1 Sept 2013 Issued for All Relevant Infrastructure Projects DL AM AA

0 Feb. 2012 For issue to EXW Consultants & Contractors IF EDF MG
Rev Date Reason For Issue Auth Chk App

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Contents
1. Foreword ...................................................................................................................... 3
2. Ashghal Interim Advice Note (IAN) – Feedback Form.............................................. 4
3. Introduction ................................................................................................................. 5
4. Withdrawn / Amended Standard ................................................................................ 5
5. Implementation ............................................................................................................ 5
Appendix A – QATAR CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS (QCS) 2010 Supplemental
Clause to Section 5, Part 14............................................................................................... 6

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1. Foreword
1.1 Interim Advice Notes (IAN) may be issued by Ashghal from time to time. They define
specific requirements for works on Ashghal projects only, subject to any specific
implementation instructions contained within each IAN.
1.2 Whilst IANs shall be read in conjunction with the Qatar Highway Design Manual (QHDM),
the Qatar Traffic Manual (QTM) and the Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS), and may
incorporate amendments or additions to these documents, they are not official updates to
the QHDM, QTM, QCS or any other standards.
1.3 Ashghal directs which IANs shall be applied to its projects on a case by case basis. Where it
is agreed that the guidance contained within a particular IAN is not to be incorporated on a
particular project (e.g. physical constraints make implementation prohibitive in terms of land
use, cost impact or time delay), a departure from standard shall be applied for by the
relevant Consultant / Contractor.
1.4 IANs are generally based on international standards and industry best practice and may
include modifications to such standards in order to suit Qatar conditions. Their purpose is to
fill gaps in existing Qatar standards where relevant guidance is missing and/or provide
higher standards in line with current, international best practice.
1.5 The IANs specify Ashghal’s requirements in the interim until such time as the current Qatar
standards (such as QHDM, QTM, etc.) are updated. These requirements may be
incorporated into future updates of the QHDM, QTM or QCS, however this cannot be
guaranteed. Therefore, third parties who are not engaged on Ashghal projects make use of
Ashghal IANs at their own risk.
1.6 All IANs are owned, controlled and updated as necessary by Ashghal. All technical queries
relating to IANs should be directed to Ashghal’s Manager of the Design Department,
Infrastructure Affairs.

Signed on behalf of Design Department:

____________________________________________________
Abdulla Ahin A A Mohd
Acting Manager of Roads & Drainage Networks Design
Design Management (Roads Section)
Public Works Authority
Tel: 44950653
Fax: 44950666
P.O.Box 22188 Doha - Qatar
Email:[email protected]
http://www.ashghal.gov.qa

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2. Ashghal Interim Advice Note (IAN) – Feedback Form

Ashghal IANs represent the product of consideration of international standards and best practice
against what would work most appropriately for Qatar. However, it is possible that not all issues
have been considered, or that there are errors or inconsistencies in an IAN.

If you identify any such issues, it would be appreciated if you could let us know so that amendments
can be incorporated into the next revision. Similarly, we would be pleased to receive any general
comments you may wish to make. Please use the form below for noting any items that you wish to
raise.

Please complete all fields necessary to identify the relevant item

IAN title:
IAN number: Appendix letter:
Page number: Table number:
Paragraph number: Figure number:
Description comment:

Please continue on a separate sheet if required:

Your name and contact details (optional):
Name: Telephone:
Organisation: Email:
Position: Address:

Please email the completed form to:

Abdulla Ahin AA Mohd

Acting Manager of Roads and Drainage Networks Design

Design Management
(Roads Section)
Public Works Authority

[email protected]

We cannot acknowledge every response, but we thank you for contributions. Those contributions
which bring new issues to our attention will ensure that the IANs will continue to assist in improving
quality on Ashghal’s infrastructure projects.

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3. Introduction
3.1 This Interim Advice Note (IAN), which takes immediate effect, provides the Specification to
be used for the waterproofing of cut and cover tunnel and underpass highway structures
which are designed to exclude ground water. This IAN will provide interim guidance prior to
issue of a revision to the Qatar Construction Specifications (QCS).
3.2 The specification is applicable to cut and cover tunnels or underpass highway structures that
are below or close to the water table and are designed to exclude groundwater.
3.3 The use of flexible self adhesive bituminous membranes is not considered adequate and
these materials should not be used for waterproofing of tunnel and underpass highway
structures which are designed to exclude ground water.

4. Withdrawn / Amended Standard

4.1 For application to cut and cover tunnels and underpass highway structures which are
designed to exclude ground water; Section 5, Part 14, Clause 14.3 of the Qatar Construction
Specifications (QCS) 2010 is superseded by the appended Specification.

5. Implementation
5.1 This IAN is to be used with immediate effect on projects as follows:
 All Ashghal projects in Design Stage
 All Ashghal projects in Tender Stage

5.2 Ashghal projects in Construction Stage shall be reviewed by the Project Consultant /
Contractor and the implications of adoption of this Interim Advice Note discussed with the
respective Ashghal Project Manager.

5.3 The only exceptions are:-

 Projects already in Construction, where a significant proportion of
waterproofing has already been completed, where this would result in a
significant additional cost or delay

5.4 If in doubt, Consultants / Contractors should seek guidance from the respective Ashghal
Project Manager or designated Programme Management Consultant (PMC) on a scheme
specific basis.

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Appendix A – QATAR CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS

(QCS) 2010 Supplemental Clause to Section 5, Part 14

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14.8 WATERPROOFING OF CUT AND COVER TUNNEL AND UNDERPASS HIGHWAY

STRUCTURES
14.8.1 GENERAL
1. Bridge underpasses, cut and cover tunnels and their approach structures which are
designed to exclude ground water shall be externally protected by a water proofing
membrane as indicated on the drawings and in this document.
2. The waterproofing system shall ensure water tightness and provide long term protection
to the concrete from the ingress of water borne chlorides or other deleterious
substances.
3. The waterproofing system forms an essential part of the tunnel and therefore needs
careful consideration during construction. It is imperative that the main contractor:
(i) understands the needs of a specialist waterproofing contractor during installation of
the water proofing system;
(ii) makes allowance in his construction methodologies for this work;
(iii) ensures close coordination with the waterproofing contractor throughout
construction and backfilling operations to avoid any mechanical damage. If damage
areas are identified they should be immediately repaired in accordance with the
manufacturer’s guidelines;
(iv) enforces cooperation between the waterproofing applicator and other trades to
ensure damage by other trades to the waterproofing membranes is reported timely
and otherwise avoided;
(v) provide all chamfers, fillets, and laps as recommended by the waterproofing
manufacturer and he shall put in place appropriate measures to ensure that no
damage occurs to the waterproofing membrane after placing or installation;
(vi) does not permit unless absolutely necessary the storage of chemicals, rebar or any
other material on top of the waterproofing membrane.
4. All elements of the waterproofing system shall be stored, applied and protected in strict
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. It shall be stored in cool (≤25°C),
dry and protected conditions out of direct sunlight and in accordance with the relevant
Health and safety regulations.
5. The waterproofing system shall be designed to be fully effective over the design life of
the structure and shall be demonstrated by the Contractor to be suitable for very
aggressive groundwater and soils.
6. The waterproofing material shall be specifically formulated to allow application in the hot
climatic conditions encountered in the Middle East and it should not be adversely
affected by temporary heat gain whilst exposed during construction.
7. Any references to a superseded standard in this document shall be taken as a reference
to the replacement standard that was current forty-two days prior to the date of return of
Tenders. If no replacement standard exists, then the reference shall be taken as
referring to a comparable, internationally recognized standard as directed by or approved
by the Engineer.

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8. This Specification is based primarily on products manufactured from PVC. Alternative

materials may be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated to the Engineer that
such materials can equally fulfill the same function as those specified. Any alternative
materials must be fully compatible with all other elements of the waterproofing system.
Alternative materials shall not be used without the written approval of the Engineer.
9. A list of all documents and standards referred to in Clause 14.8 is included in Clause
14.8.12.

14.8.2 CERTIFICATION/ APPROVALS

1. The waterproofing system shall have a proven record of use in the cut and cover
construction method for underpasses and tunnels as well as immersed Tube tunnels.
2. All waterproofing materials shall be compatible with each other and shall be supplied by
a manufacturers and installers operating a BS EN ISO 9001 or similar approved quality
assurance schemes. All materials shall have a valid Agreement Certificate for Road and
Bridge Structures approved by a member of the uEAtc, and shall comply with UK
Highways Authorities Product Approval Scheme (HAPAS). The waterproofing system
shall also have a current BBA certificate for tanking and roofing application.
3. The Contractor shall submit to the Engineer for approval details of the proposed
waterproofing system, which shall include shop drawings of all the typical waterproofing
details (such as the construction and expansion joints, method of compartmentalization,
etc.)
4. The waterproofing applicator must submit a Method Statement inclusive of Inspection
and Test Plan and Safety Plan inclusive of Risk Assessment to cover all aspects of the
waterproofing work to be approved by the Engineer.
5. The Waterproofing Applicator must be a certified or approved applicator of the
manufacturer’s waterproofing material. Waterproofing Applicator site staff shall have
individual certification of training in the application of the materials. The Waterproofing
Applicator’s Certificate from the waterproofing manufacturer shall be annually renewable
as from the date of issue.

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14.8.3 APPLICATION / INSTALLATION

14.8.3.1 BONDED SYSTEM
14.8.3.1.1 Below Base Slabs and up Both Sides of the Base Slab

1. The waterproofing system shall be a sheet membrane system based on flexible PVC
resins. Alternative materials may be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated to
the Engineer that such materials are fully compatible with all other elements of the
waterproofing system. Alternative materials shall not be used without the written
approval of the Engineer.
2. A 100mm thick blinding layer shall be finished with a smooth finish, free from any
projections prior to the installation of the sheet membrane.
3. The PVC sheet membrane shall be laid directly on the blinding layer with a minimum
overlap of 80 mm; all overlap joints shall be double seam continuous machine welded.
4. Where double seams are not possible the single welded seams shall have a width of not
less than 30mm. At the commencement of each days installation production, the wedge
welding shall be trialed on test pieces of membrane and the resultant welding shall resist
tearing apart by hand under reasonable force.
5. The membrane shall be capable of mechanically bonding to the underside and to the
sides of the base slab of the tunnel. It shall not require protection boards or screeds
above the membrane and shall be UV resistant.
6. The membrane shall have a Keyed Preformed Membrane (KPM) equipped with
continuous keys, extruded on a preformed sheet membrane at regular intervals to form
compartments and to form an integral bond when cast into concrete.
7. The membrane shall be made continuous across all construction, contraction and
expansion joints.
8. The membrane/waterstop detail at expansion joints shall be capable of accommodating
the full design movements (vertical and horizontal) of the structure.
9. The compartmentalization of the membrane shall not exceed the section of tunnel base
slab between external waterstops at construction, contraction and expansion joints.
10. All joints between the membrane and the external waterstops, to form the
compartmentalization, shall be double seam continuous machine welded and where
double seams are not possible the single welded seams shall have a width of not less
than 30mm.
11. Any modifications required to the sheet membrane for heat welding to the external
waterstop shall be carried out strictly in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations and procedures.
12. The membrane shall be manufactured from polymer resins, be chemically resistant and
shall have the minimum specified mechanical and physical properties as stated in Table
14.8.3.1.1 below:

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Table 14.8.3.1.1
Required Properties for Bonded System
Below Base Slabs and up Both Sides of the Base Slab
Property Test Method Value
Thickness Direct measurement 2.0mm
Density ASTM D792 ≥1.25g/cm3
Puncture Resistance ASTM E154 500N minimum
Elongation at Break ASTM D638 250%
Tensile Strength ASTM D638 ≥15MPa
Tear Resistance ASTM D1004 300N
Shore D hardness ASTM D2240 54D (1 second)
Hydro Static Pressure Resistance ASTM D5385-93 ≥69m
Water Absorption ASTM D570 <0.4%
Chemical Resistance to the following substances: Sulphuric No effect
Acid (10%); Hydro Chloric Acid (10%); Kerosene; benzene;
Sodium Hydroxide; Sodium Chloride and Sodium Sulphate

13. The membrane shall be manufactured under BS EN ISO 9001 quality control, tested by
the manufacturer to be free of pinholes, cracks or other defects and be certified that all
batches of material meet the manufacturer’s quality control and technical specifications
before it is dispatched from the factory.
14. Reinforcement concrete spacer blocks in contact with the membrane shall be a minimum
of 50mm wide and 50mm long. The concrete spacer blocks shall be positioned so that no
spacer block has more than 500kg of load placed on it.

14.8.3.1.2 Walls and Roof of Tunnel

1. The waterproofing system shall be an elastomeric cold spray liquid system comprising a
primer and two separately applied coats of membrane in contrasting colours.
2. The physical properties of the system shall be resistant to any such effects from the sun,
including but not limited to, UV, radiation and heat.
3. The density of the applied cured membrane shall be greater than 1.10g/cm3.
4. All waterproofing materials including primers, tack coats etc. shall be compatible with
each other and shall be supplied by a manufacturer and installer operating the BS EN ISO
9001 or similar approved quality assurance schemes. All materials shall have a valid
Agreement Certificate for Road and Bridge Structures approved by a member of the
uEAtc, and shall comply with UK Highways Authorities Product Approval Scheme
(HAPAS). The waterproofing system shall also have a current BBA certificate for
tanking and roofing application.
5. The membrane shall be cold applied using a proportioning spray pump system. Each
coat of membrane shall be applied strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s

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guidelines to a minimum dry film thickness of 1.0mm in order to produce a minimum total
membrane dry film thickness of 2mm.
6. Wet film thickness checks will be carried out every 10m2 to ensure that the minimum
thickness is being applied.
7. Before application of the second coat the fully cured surface of the first coat shall be
examined and any visible defects made good in accordance with the manufacturers
guidelines. Only after this QA/QC inspection has been completed may the second coat, of a
contrasting colour, be applied. Following the application of the second coat the membrane
will again be checked for defects and for pinholes by performing electrical holiday
detection tests over the full surface area of waterproofing.
8. Increased wind can effect coverage rates and cause overspray. These effects can be
mitigated by adjusting spray pressure and spray technique. For wind speeds in excess of
25kmh application can be difficult unless some form of wind shield is used. At these wind
speeds measures must be taken to prevent overspray. Spraying shall be suspended
when it is unsafe to continue e.g. flying objects, airborne sand/and or in the opinion of the
Authorised Applicator compliance with the manufacturer’s Quality Assurance is at risk.
9. Any termination of the waterproofing system at day joints for subsequent lapping of the
waterproofing system shall be staggered with a minimum lap of 50mm for the primer, first
coat and second coat.
10. To ensure that the integrity of any day joints and lapping is assured no component of the
waterproofing system shall have a critical over coating time.
11. The physical properties and performance of all components of the waterproofing system
shall not be affected by atmospheric humidity. The waterproofing system will be able to be
applied in levels of Relative Humidity of up to 99%.
12. The details of the membrane at construction, contraction and expansion joints shall be in
accordance with the section on joints of this specification (See Section 14.8.6.Joints).

14.8.3.1.3 Adhesive

1. The adhesive shall be a two component, flexible resin adhesive capable of bonding PVC
sheets to concrete and steel as well as facilitating an intimate bond formation between the
sprayed waterproofing membrane and PVC base slab and wall waterproofing or PVC
Expansion Joints at the overlap. This bond will need to be proven by tensile adhesion
testing.
2. The adhesive shall be capable of being applied underwater.
3. Lapping of the spray applied liquid waterproofing system onto the PVC base slab sheet
membrane system shall be a minimum of 200mm.
4. Sufficient time for bonding of surfaces on site shall be allowed in the setting time of the
adhesive.

14.8.3.1.4 Preparation of Surfaces

1. The minimum age of new concrete shall be 15 days prior to application of the
waterproofing system provided that all required surface preparation is completed and that
the minimum tensile adhesion value of 0.7MPa of the waterproofing system to the
concrete is achieved.

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2. All concrete surfaces to receive the sprayed applied waterproofing shall be dry, free of all
traces of loose material, laitance, shutter oil, grease, curing compound, windblown
deposits and other contaminants which could result in an adverse reaction with the
protective system.
3. The concrete surfaces shall be free from surface defects including but not limited to small
holes, minor cracking or defective joints. The Engineer’s approval shall be obtained for
the method of repairing any surface defects. Any preparatory filling required shall
normally be carried out using an approved shrinkage compensated cementitious mortar.
4. The quality of formed concrete finish to surfaces receiving the waterproofing membrane
shall be:
(i) Uniform, dense and smooth surface with no grout runs;
(ii) Abrupt irregularities permitted to be <3mm for formed concrete surface after
stripping of forms. However these abrupt irregularities shall be removed by
grinding;
(iii) Gradual irregularities permitted are <5mm in 2m:
(a) Tie bolt holes need to be repaired with an appropriate cementitious mortar;
(b) Bugholes, blowholes and the like must be broken out and then repaired to an
agreed method statement;
(c) Honeycombed concrete areas of concrete must be repaired to an agreed
method statement.
5. The quality of unformed finish to tunnel roof shall be:
(i) Uniform, dense and smooth surface;
(ii) Abrupt irregularities permitted to be <3mm during finishing work of poured
concrete. However these abrupt irregularities shall be removed by grinding;
(iii) Gradual irregularities permitted are <10mm in 2m;
(iv) Finish concrete with a wooden or steel trowel;
(v) Target finished concrete surface strength to be 0.7MPa at 14 days.
6. Prior to the application of the primer all concrete surfaces shall be sandblasted
7. To verify the quality of the concrete substrate for bonding of the membrane, a minimum of
1 tensile adhesion test is to be carried out on the substrate every 50m2 prior to the
application of the primer and membrane, subject to a minimum of 6 tests for each
structure being tested.
8. The maximum ambient and substrate temperature permissible for application of any
component of the waterproofing to take place is +50° Celsius.
9. The primer shall be compatible with the waterproofing membrane and will be
recommended by the waterproofing manufacturer and shall meet their approval for use on
this project. It shall be applied to the concrete substrate following the surface preparation
and prior to the application of the first coat of waterproofing membrane. The primer is
used to seal the surface of the concrete and to improve the adhesion of the waterproofing
membrane.

14.8.3.1.5 Construction and Contraction Joints

1. A 175mm wide Polyester reinforcement scrim, as recommended by the manufacturer of

the waterproofing system, shall be embedded into the first coat of membrane when the
waterproofing system bridges over construction or contraction joints.

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14.8.3.1.6 Technical Specification of the Spray Applied Liquid Membrane

1. The membrane shall have the minimum specified mechanical and physical properties as
stated in Table 14.8.3.1.6 below:
Table 14.8.3.1.6
Required Properties for Spray Applied Liquid Membranes
PROPERTY TEST METHOD VALUE
Minimum Thickness ASTM D412 2mm minimum
Elongation BS903:A2 BS ISO37; ASTM D412 >80% -<150%
Density of cured membrane ASTM D792 >1.10g/cm³
Tensile Adhesion Strength of BS EN ISO 4624
membrane Concrete Substrate ≥0.7 MPa
Steel Substrate ≥ 2.0 MPa
PVC Substrate ≥2.0 MPa
Water Vapour transmission ASTM E96 at 230 C <4g/m2 /day
Tensile Strength BS 903:A2 BS ISO 37; ASTM D412 ≥9MPa
Tear Strength BS ISO 34-1 ≥60 N/mm
BS2782: Part 3 Method 365BBS EN ISO ≥40 (Shore D)
Shore Hardness
868
BD47 (or equivalent standard approved
Water penetration Zero
by the Engineer)
Static Crack-Bridging ASTM C836 2mm @ 00 C
BD47 (or equivalent standard approved ≥1mm @ -10°C, 23°C &
Dynamic Crack Bridging
by the Engineer) 40°C
Chemical resistance: TRL Research Report 248 (or equivalent
- Anti-freeze (ethylene glycol) standard approved by the Engineer) Resistant
- Calcium Chloride Resistant
- Diesel Fuel Resistant
- Gasoline Resistant
- Motor Oil Resistant
- Sodium Chloride Resistant
Resistance to Chloride ion BD47 (or equivalent standard approved 0.00% increase in
penetration (%) by the Engineer) chloride
No statistically significant
Immersion In Sea Water BS EN ISO 2812-2
change
Resistance to aggregate BD47 (or equivalent standard approved 0.00% increase in
indentation by the Engineer) chloride & >95%
recovered thickness at
40˚C, 80˚C and 125˚C
Resistance to chisel impact BD47 (or equivalent standard approved
Chloride ion penetration (%) by the Engineer) 0.00% increase in
at -100C, 230C and 400C chloride
SNCF Taber Method
Resistance to abrasion H22 Wheel – 1000 cycles (or equivalent <0.60g
test approved by the Engineer)
Puncture resistance SNCF Vibrogir, 41kN – 185kN No puncture without
Frequency of 5 Hz protection
2 million cycles using Mohr & Federhaff
PV200 dynamic pulsator. Only SNCF
laboratory test report is acceptable.

Hydrostatic Testing SNCF requirements on product 18 bar resistance

specimens following the required ballast
puncture resistance test. Only SNCF
designated laboratories are acceptable.
Equivalent tests may be used subject to
the approval of the Engineer

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14.8.3.1.7 Protection of Waterproofing Membrane

1. A minimum 75mm screed protection shall be provided on the waterproofing membrane on

the roof slab and on top surfaces of foundations.

14.8.3.2 UNBONDED SYSTEM

14.8.3.2.1 General

1. The waterproofing system shall be a single layer unreinforced synthetic PVC 2.00 mm
thick twin colour membrane below base slabs, walls and top slabs of the tunnel.
Alternative materials may be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated to the
Engineer that such materials are fully compatible with all other elements of the
waterproofing system. Alternative materials shall not be used without the written approval
of the Engineer.
2. For the integrity and water tightness of the waterproofing system, it is recommended that
the entire waterproofing system is supplied by one manufacturer. Specifically,
membranes and waterstops should be manufactured out of virgin raw materials only from
the same formulation of raw materials.
3. All materials shall be compatible with other materials to which they abut. Particular
attention shall be paid to the compatibility of interfaces and junctions with adjacent
structures.
4. The system shall be compartmentalised with PVC waterstops and shall be welded to the
membrane.
5. The compartmentalization shall be limited to the length of tunnel between construction
and expansion joints.
6. Repairs to a leak need to be limited to the section of tunnel within the compartment where
the leak has been identified.

14.8.3.2.2 Preparation of Surfaces

1. Surfaces to receive waterproofing shall be prepared in strict compliance with the

requirements of the manufacturer. All contaminants, such as dust, loose particles,
moisture, tar, bitumen, oils and greases, shall be removed from the surface. If necessary,
rough or other unsuitable surfaces shall be improved to satisfy the manufacturer's
recommendations for the product to be applied.
2. The Contractor shall examine substrate surfaces and ensure there are no conditions
which will adversely affect the performance of the waterproofing works. Waterproofing
works must not be commenced until unsatisfactory conditions have been corrected.

14.8.3.2.3 Below Base Slabs and up Both Sides of Base Slab

1. The blinding shall be finished with a smooth finish, free from any projections.
2. Formwork or blockwork up to the top of base slab level plus an additional height equal to
half of the horizontal construction joint external waterstop shall be installed prior to the
installation of the water proofing system on the underside and up the sides of the
foundation or tunnel floor slab.

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3. The geotextile shall be installed over the width of the base and up the sides of the
formwork on a dry surface with a minimum overlap of 100 mm.
4. The PVC membrane shall then be laid on the geotextile with a minimum overlap of 80
mm; all overlap joints shall be double seam continuous machine welded.
5. After the completion of the membrane laying and testing, the waterstops for construction
joints / compartment shall be installed and welded to the membrane to form closed
compartments of maximum 150 m².
6. The control & injection flanges shall be fixed with each compartment connected with a PU
pipe and terminated in an inspection box.
7. The second layer of geotextile shall be laid over the PVC membrane.
8. A protection screed of 75 mm shall be then laid on the geotextile over the width of the
floor slab only, the waterstops shall at all times be exposed.
9. Special care shall be taken not to damage the waterproofing membrane on the sides of
the foundation slab when fixing of reinforcement. A temporary protection board may be
used in this area to prevent damage to the membrane.

14.8.3.2.4 Vertical Walls

1. Prior to casting of the walls, the control and injection flanges shall be fixed on the
formwork, connected with a PU pipe and terminated at the inspection box. The re-
injectable hose shall be installed at all construction joints of the walls and terminated at
the junction box. All accessories for the injection hose shall be from the hose
manufacturer. The swelling profile (acrylic base 20 x 10mm) shall also be fixed at the
construction joints.
2. After casting of the wall, the geotextile shall be fixed on the concrete wall with the fixing
discs spaced 2 m horizontal and vertical.
3. The PVC membrane shall be fixed on the vertical surface and welded to the fixing discs,
overlap shall be of minimum 80 mm double seam continuous machine welded. The
membrane shall be welded to the pre-installed waterstops to form the compartment.
4. A protection layer of Polypropylene board shall be fixed on the PVC membrane by a
contact adhesive followed with a geotextile layer prior backfilling.

14.8.3.2.5 On Top Slabs

1. The concrete top slab shall be finished with a smooth finish, free from any projections.
2. A sealing tape (PVC tape with fabric strips) shall be fixed with the epoxy adhesive at
expansion, contraction joints and compartment.
3. The geotextile shall be installed on a dry surface with a minimum overlap of 100 mm.
4. The PVC membrane shall then be laid on the geotextile with a minimum overlap of 80
mm, all overlap joints shall be double seam continuous machine welded. The membrane
shall be welded on the sealing tape to form the top slab compartment.
5. The second layer of geotextile shall be laid.
6. A protection screed of 75 mm shall then be laid on the geotextile, followed by the
backfilling.

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7. Special attention shall be taken when connecting the sealing tape to the external
waterstop at the outer edges of the tunnel roof to ensure water tightness. This detail
needs careful thought, designed and shop drawings prepared for approval by the
Engineer.

14.8.3.2.6 Geotextile Protection

1. The geotextile protection and slip membrane shall be manufactured from Polypropylene
base of minimum 350 g/m² applied on both sides of the membrane.

2. The geotextile sheet shall comply with the minimum following properties:

Table 14.8.3.2.6
Required Properties for Geotextile Protection
Test Test Method Requirement
Mass BS EN ISO 9864 350 g/m2
Elongation at break BS EN ISO 10319 ≥ 55%
Tensile Strength BS EN ISO 10319 ≥ 25 kN/m
Thickness under 2 Kpa BS EN ISO 9863 ≥ 2.9mm
CBR Puncture Resistance BS EN ISO 12236 ≥ 4.0 kN
Cone Drop Test BS EN ISO 13433 ≤ 10 mm

14.8.3.2.7 Technical Specification of the Unbonded Membrane

1. The membrane shall comply with the following minimum properties:

Table 14.8.3.2.7
Required Properties for Unbonded Membranes
Test (units) Test Method Requirement
Tensile Strength (N/mm2) BS EN ISO 527 - 1/3/5 > 15 N/mm2
Elongation at break (%) BS EN ISO 527 - 1/3/5 > 280%
Tear Strength BS ISO 34 B > 42 kN/m
Impact Resistance (500 g/750 mm) BS EN 1107 – 2 No leakage
Static Puncture BS EN ISO 12236 > 2 kN
Water tightness to liquid water
BS EN 1928 No leakage
(5 bar/72 h) (10 bar/ 24h)
Thermal Ageing (70 d/70 ºC) BS EN 1296 < 2%
SIA V280-12 (or equivalent standard
Reaction to fire Class 4.1
approved by the Engineer)

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14.8.3.2.8 PVC Control and Injection Flanges

1. For unbonded systems, compartmentalization is required and will be limited to the length
of tunnel between construction and expansion joints. Compartments should never extend
beyond construction and expansion joints.
2. PVC control and injection flanges shall be spot-welded to the membrane fixed to the
formwork (minimum 4 No. per compartment) for control and future injection of the
compartment. The flange shall be connected with a PU pipe resistant to 10 bar pressure
and terminated in an injection box at walls / roof slabs.

14.8.4 REINJECTABLE HOSES AND RESIN

1. The type of reinjectable hoses shall be specified by the water proofing manufacturer and
detailed on the shop drawings for approval by the Engineer.
2. The system shall be 100% reinjectable at any time during its lifespan.
3. The reinjectable grout hose shall be suitable to be placed and fixed over rough concrete
substrates and to maintain a continuous contact with that substrate.
4. The injection resin shall be based on a 3 component polyacrylic resins. The resin shall be
chemically resistant and not be reliant on adhesion to the substrates it is in contact with
for waterproofing performance. The gelling time (from 8 to 50 minutes) of the resin shall
be able to be retarded or accelerated to suit the conditions of water outflow and length of
injection path required. The resin manufacturer shall supply accelerator and or retarder
materials suitable for mixing with the resin to alter the gelling time.
5. The compressive strength of the mixed resin after gelling should be very low to allow
reinjection at high pressure.
6. The injection shall be suitable for reinjection at low temperature to very high temperatures
(-10°C to +80°C).
7. The resin shall be a low viscosity reactive to water (swellable) and have a PH in the range
of 8 to 11.

14.8.5 WATERSTOPS
1. The waterstop shall be based on flexible PVC resins preformed to shape and thickness
and to a suitable profile for both internal and external locations of the concrete structure.
Alternative materials may be permitted provided that it can be demonstrated to the
Engineer that such materials are fully compatible with all other elements of the
waterproofing system. Alternative materials shall not be used without the written approval
of the Engineer.
2. The waterstop shall be chemically resistant and shall have the minimum specified
mechanical and physical properties as stated in Table 14.8.5 below:

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Table 14.8.5
Minimum Required Properties for Waterstops
Property Test Method Value
Specific gravity ASTM D792 1.27 (± 0.3)g/m2
Elongation at rupture ASTM D638 350%
Tensile Strength ASTM D638 >15 MPa
Water absorption TS 3078 (or equivalent 1% by weight
standard approved by the
Engineer)
Hardness TS 3078 (or equivalent 75 (±5) Shore A
standard approved by the
Engineer)

3. The waterstops shall be of sufficient thickness and width, have sufficient embedment
capacity into the concrete to withstand 2.5bar negative water pressure without failure
and take the movement indicated on the drawings. The waterstop shall be at least 4mm
thick.

14.8.6 JOINTS
1. The detail of the waterproofing membrane at construction, contraction and expansion
shall be shown on the shop drawings for approval by the Engineer. Of particular interest
will be the following:
(i) The location of the reinjectable grout hoses and injection points;
(ii) The location of the swelling bars;
(iii) The location of all internal and external waterstops;
(iv) The details of the additional PVC sheet membrane above the external waterstops
at expansion joints;
(v) The overlapping joint details of the spray membrane with the external waterstop
and PVC sheet membrane;
(vi) The waterproofing expansion joint detail at the top corners of the tunnel, given that
the external waterstop stops at that location;
(vii) The waterproofing details at expansion joints at the top of the tunnel roof slabs.
2. The following details are however recommended:
(i) The concrete substrate at all construction joints is scabbled to remove all laitance
and expose the aggregate. Wetting the surface of the concrete substrate at the
expansion joint to establish a saturated surface dry condition prior to the placement
of concrete is also recommended;
(ii) Reinjectable hoses should be installed at all construction and expansion joint
locations strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. They are
preferably located at or close to the ends of the internal waterstop at expansion
joints and on the concrete surface close to the centre of the section at all
construction joints;

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(iii) Swelling bars shall also be fixed with swelling mastic on the prepared concrete
substrate at all construction joints. Preparation of the concrete substrate at
construction joints shall include scabbling of the concrete surface to remove all
laitance and expose the aggregate;
(iv) All external and internal water stops shall be made of PVC, manufactured
preferably from the same raw material as the membrane for full compatibility. For
construction, contraction joints and compartments (for unbonded system) the water
stops shall be 310 mm wide with 6 no. ribs, while for expansion joints the water
stops shall be 320 mm wide with 6 no. ribs;
(v) All expansion joints shall be sealed internally with a PVC water stop of 320 mm
wide. The waterstop shall be able to accommodate the design movements
(horizontal and vertical) of the structure;
(vi) All internal waterstops shall be maintained in their designated location during
concrete placement by means of non-corrosive tie straps with the purpose of
locating the outer edges of the waterstop to the reinforcement cage. This is
particularly important for the waterstops along the foundation slab to wall
construction joint. These waterstops if left unsupported will be flattened onto the
concrete substrate surface during concrete placement thus rendering them
ineffective.

14.8.7 BACKFILLING OPERATION

1. A layer of geotextile together with a protection board shall be provided to protect the
waterproofing system on the outer walls of tunnels and retaining walls prior to backfilling.
However in the case of the bonded system, if due care is exercised during backfilling and
fulltime supervision is provided from the waterproofing manufacturer during the entire
backfilling operation, it shall be acceptable to do away with the geotextile layer and
protection board.
2. The backfilling material shall consist of a selected graded backfill from 0 to 75mm max size
of aggregate.
3. During the compaction of the graded backfill material the compaction machines must take
care not to come into contact with the waterproofing system. If contact occurs the contact
area shall be inspected to see whether the waterproofing system has merely been marked
by the tracks of the compaction machine or whether it has been damaged. If damaged,
the waterproofing system must be repaired prior to continuation of the backfilling operation.
4. If the backfilling contractor notices any potential damage to the waterproofing system
during compaction they are to inform the waterproofing applicator immediately.

14.8.8 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

1. All waterproofing systems shall be bonded to the external waterstop on the entire
circumference of the tunnel at all construction and expansion joints to ensure
compartmentalization requirements.
2. Where ever possible double seals shall be installed at all joints in the unbonded systems.
3. Shear keys at construction and expansion joints shall be continuous on the entire
circumference of the tunnel.

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4. Internal waterstops shall preferably be installed at the centre of the shear key or at a
distance of at least 300mm from the external waterstop.
5. Waterstops with anchoring and sealing ribs shall not be used at the top of concrete
sections such as at wall foundations and tunnel roof slabs. An alternate system which
does not require the anchoring and sealing ribs for sealing from water ingress shall be
utilized.
6. The connection between this alternate system and the wall external waterstop (for
example at the top external corner of a tunnel) shall be carefully designed and submitted
for approval prior to use.
7. A triple barrier system which will include the internal waterstop, the external waterstop and
an unbounded section of waterproofing membrane shall be provided at all expansion
joints.
8. Paddle flanges or swelling bars shall be installed on both sides of all pipes passing through
expansion joints. Movement joints in the pipes shall also be designed to be water tight and
to accommodate the expansion and contraction movements of the expansion joints.

14.8.9 QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL

1. All sampling and testing shall be carried out in compliance with the specified sampling and
testing standards.
2. The testing frequency stipulated herein shall be mandatory unless otherwise stated. The
tests are to be conducted as per the demands of the site as applicable. The same testing
sequence and frequency shall be adopted for the recycled materials as applicable.
3. All testing will have to be carried out on site or at a designated laboratory irrespective of
whether the materials have been tested by the manufacturer or by an intermediate party or
the availability of the conformity certificates.
4. Where the testing frequency specified in a standard differs from a specific requirement
stated in this document, the higher frequency is deemed to be applicable. Sampling and
testing frequency may be modified as directed by the Engineer.
5. Product manufacturers shall provide independent test reports for each of the properties
listed in the following:
Table 14.8.3.1.1 Required Properties for Bonded System Below Base Slabs and
up Both Sides of the Base Slab
Table 14.8.3.1.6 Required Properties for Spray Applied Liquid Membranes
Table 14.8.3.2.6 Required Properties for Geotextile Protection
Table 14.8.3.2.7 Required Properties for Unbonded Membranes
Table 14.8.5 Required Properties for Waterstops

6. Product manufacturers shall provide a Certificate of Conformity for each batch of material
delivered to site, confirming compliance with the technical requirements herein.
7. The contractor shall submit samples and full technical details for approval by the Engineer.
Samples shall include 300 x 300 mm of membranes and 300mm of strip products, as
appropriate. The submission shall be full and complete and include components of the
whole of the waterproofing system as a single package.

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8. The Contractor shall execute a trial test section on vertical and horizontal surfaces which
shall include details of construction and expansion joints, complete with protection system
for testing and approval by the Engineer before continuing with the application/installation
to the structures.
9. The membrane shall be visually inspected and any necessary remedial work shall be
carried out before the application of the subsequent covering up. All repairs shall be
inspected and approved by the Engineer.
10. The manufacturer shall be present on site at critical stages of the application/installation
and during all testing and shall be responsible for maintaining standards and quality and
for training of the Material Applicator’s staff when required.
11. Where ever possible double seam welds shall be provided at joints in unbonded systems.
All double seam welded joints shall be tested under air pressure of 2bar in the gap
between weld runs. This pressure shall be held for 10 minutes and the pressure should
not drop by more than 15%. All single seam welds shall be tested non-destructively using
a spark testing device at a voltage of approximately 10,000V. All of these joints shall also
be tested for any discontinuity of welding by running a blunt bladed instrument along the
entire length of all the welds in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
12. The manufacturers on-site Quality Assurance procedures shall be followed without
exception and shall include but not limited to the following:
(i) Site inspection;
(ii) For bonded systems:
(a) Substrate cleaning and preparation,
(b) Adhesion testing,
(c) Primer application,
(d) Wet film thickness measurements,
(e) Holiday detection testing,
(f) Material consumption monitoring and evaluation;
(iii) For unbonded systems:
(a) Membrane cutting to size and laying,
(b) Membrane joint welding and testing,
(c) Membrane terminations detailing;
(iv) Final inspection;
(v) Reinjection system:
(a) Grout tube fixing and inlet/outlet tube fixing,
(b) Resin mixing and gel time testing,
(c) Injection inspection (low pressure),
(d) Second injection (high pressure);
13. The following testing shall be carried out on site:
(i) Substrate and spray membrane shall include tensile adhesion tests on the cured
membrane (3 per 500m2);
(ii) Wet film thickness checks (1 per 10m2);
(iii) Pinhole holiday detection tests (100% of area);

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(iv) Elongation at break, shore hardness, tensile strength and tear strength (1 per
10,000m2)
The test methods and standards indicated in Table 14.8.3.1.1, Table 14.8.3.1.6, Table
14.8.3.2.6, Table 14.8.3.2.7 and Table 14.8.5 shall be used to verify compliance.
14. Records shall be maintained on a daily basis for each of the following:
(i) Coverage rates where appropriate;
(ii) Weather;
(iii) Substrate surface condition.

14.8.10 WARRANTY
1. All components and elements of the waterproofing system which are needed to make the
structure watertight shall be proven to work together. There shall be a single source of
responsibility and performance of the products. The manufacturer shall confirm full and
proven compatibility of the entire waterproofing system in writing.
2. The Contractor shall provide 15 years unlimited warranty on all workmanship and 25
years on all waterproofing material and waterstops. The warranty will ensure the tunnel
remains dry during the warranty period and that leaks will be repaired in a timely manner
at no extra cost to the Client.

14.8.11 MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

1. The tendered rate for waterproofing shall include full compensation for supply and
application of all materials and all complementary works, for all labour, equipment, tools
and incidentals necessary to complete the work to the satisfaction of the Engineer.
2. The unit of measurement shall be the square metre area of concrete surfaces receiving
the membrane.

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STANDARDS AND DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN CLAUSE 14.8

British Standards Institution

BS ISO 34 Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic. Determination of tear strength.

BS ISO 37 Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic. Determination of tensile

stress-strain properties.

BS EN ISO 527 Plastics. Determination of tensile properties.

BS EN ISO 868 Plastics and ebonite. Determination of indentation hardness by

means of a durometer (Shore hardness).

BS 903-A2 Physical testing of rubber. Determination of tensile stress-strain

properties.

BS EN 1107 Flexible sheets for waterproofing. Determination of dimensional

stability.

BS EN 1296 Flexible sheets for waterproofing. Bitumen, plastic and rubber

sheets for roofing. Method of artificial ageing by long term exposure
to elevated temperature.

BS EN 1928 Flexible sheets for waterproofing. Bitumen, plastic and rubber

sheets for roof waterproofing. Determination of watertightness.

BS 2782-3 Methods of testing plastics. Mechanical properties. Flexural

vibration. Non-resonance method.

BS EN ISO 2812-2 Paints and varnishes. Determination of resistance to liquids. Water

immersion method.

BS EN ISO 4624 Paints and varnishes. Pull-off test for adhesion.

BS EN ISO 9001 Quality management systems. Requirements.

BS EN ISO 9863 Geosynthetics. Determination of thickness at specified pressures.

BS EN ISO 9864 Geosynthetics. Test method for the determination of mass per unit
area of geotextiles and geotextile-related products.
BS EN ISO 10319 Geosynthetics. Wide-width tensile test.

BS EN ISO 12236 Geosynthetics. Static puncture test (CBR test).

BS EN ISO 13433 Geosynthetics. Dynamic peroration test (cone drop test).

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ASTM International

ASTM C836 Standard Specification for High Solids Content, Cold Liquid Applied
Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane for Use with Separate
Wearing Course.

ASTM D412 Standard Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic
Elastomers—Tension.

ASTM D570 Standard Test Method for Water Absorption of Plastics.

ASTM D638 Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics.

ASTM D792 Standard Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative
Density) of Plastics by Displacement.

ASTM D1004 Standard Test Method for Tear Resistance (Graves Tear) of Plastic
Film and Sheeting.

ASTM D2240 Standard Test Method for Rubber Property 8212;Durometer

Hardness.

ASTM D5385-93 Standard Test Method for Hydrostatic Pressure Resistance of

Waterproofing Membranes.

ASTM E96 Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials.

ASTM E154 Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact
with Earth Under Concrete Slabs, on Walls, or as Ground Cover.

Highways Agency (United Kingdom)

BD 47 Waterproofing and Surfacing of Concrete Bridge Decks.

Transport Research Laboratory

TRL Research Laboratory tests on waterproofing systems for concrete bridge

Report 248 decks.

Swiss Association for Standardization

SIV V280 Polymer Membranes, Materials Testing and Requirements

European Committee for Standardization

TS 3078 PVC Plastic for Construction and Expansion Joints In Concrete

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