OVERVIEW

A £3 million subsea technology facility in Northern England required the
construction of a specialist water-retaining test tank to support the testing
and development of subsea technologies.
The 1,800sqm facility demanded a robust waterproofing strategy capable of
delivering reliable, long-term watertight performance. SMR Projects worked
closely with specialist contractor RBB Group Ltd to provide a waterproofing
solution tailored to the projects requirements.

WATERPROOFING STRATEGY

To achieve a high-performance waterproofing solution, a dual-system approach was adopted incorporating:

• Xypex Admix C Series crystalline waterproofing technology
• Hydroswell hydrophilic water stop system

This combination provided integral waterproofing throughout the concrete structure, alongside targeted protection at construction joints.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT FROM SMR PROJECTS

SMR Projects supplied both the Xypex Admix C-Series and Hydroswell systems, providing:

• Technical specification guidance
• Waterproofing system design support
• Installation and detailing advice
• Ongoing project assistance

Early collaboration helped ensure the waterproofing strategy was successfully
integrated into the construction programme.

XYPEX ADMIN C SERIES TECHNOLOGY

Xypex Admix C Series was incorporated directly into the concrete during batching, creating permanent waterproofing protection within the structure.

The active chemicals react with moisture and un hydrated cement particles to form insoluble crystals that block capillaries, pores and micro voids, significantly reducing water permeability.

Key benefits included:

• Integral waterproofing throughout the concrete section
• Enhanced resistance to water penetration
• Improved durability and service life
• Self-sealing of micro-cracks over time

By becoming part of the concrete itself, the waterproofing protection remains active for the
life of the structure.

HYDROSWELL JOINT PROTECTION

To complement the Xypex system, Hydroswell waterstops were installed at key construction joints.
The system expands on contact with water, creating a positive seal that prevents water
tracking through these vulnerable areas and helps maintain long-term watertightness.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT FROM SMR PROJECTS

SMR Projects supplied both the Xypex Admix C-Series and Hydroswell systems, providing:

• Technical specification guidance
• Waterproofing system design support
• Installation and detailing advice
• Ongoing project assistance

Early collaborations helped ensure the waterproofing strategy was successfully integrated into the construction programme.

PROJECT OUTCOME

The combination of Xypex Admix C Series and Hydroswell delivered a reliable waterproofing solution for this specialist subsea technology facility.

By providing integral waterproofing within the concrete and protection at construction
joints, the system helps minimise the risk of water ingress, improve long-term durability and support the whole-life performance of the water retaining structure.

This project highlights how proven waterproofing technologies, supported by expert
technical guidance, can deliver confidence on complex construction projects.