A composite construction material that solidifies in water

Abstract

A FLEXIBLE, waterproof material that will solidify in water has long been desired in civil engineering^1,2. We have developed a new class of material, called Aquaphalt, which has these and other desirable properties. Aquaphalt is composed of an asphalt emulsion, cement and a water-absorbing polymer. The components are liquid at ambient temperature and can therefore be pumped, but they form a gel almost instantly when mixed. The hardened mixture is similar to hard bitumen, and has very low water permeability, high ductility and good adhesion to other materials. Here we describe the characteristics of Aquaphalt, with particular emphasis on those properties that give it potential as a shock-absorbing, waterproof backfill material for tunnels and dams, and as an antiliquefaction agent for protection of buildings exposed to earthquake hazards.