A Research on the Behavior of a Polyurethane Polymer Waterproof Material Used in Bridge Geotechnical Applications

Abstract

Polyurethane is enjoying a widespread use as a polymer-based waterproof material in civil engineering In the present study we consider a temperature-sensitive waterproof and moisture-permeable polyurethane material (PTPE-PU) characterized by one or more phase transition temperatures (critical temperatures). Near the critical temperature, the waterproof and moisture permeability of polyurethane undergo abrupt changes. The related stability, thermal performance, water resistance, hydrostatic pressure, and moisture permeability are investigated here considering a PTPE-PU traditionally used in bridge geotechnical engineering. The results show that the moisture permeability of the coated bridge rock and soil undergo sudden variations near the crystallization and melting temperature of the soft segment. The moisture permeability is 3000 g/(m2d). The hydrostatic pressure of the coated bridge rock and soil is 3.5 kPa.