The development of high-grade concrete formulations has paved the way for the use of structural elements, i.e. buried reinforced-concrete ground slabs, walls and, where required, suspended slabs, to provide a waterproof barrier.

Waterproof concrete basement systems (the designation "White Tank" alludes to the colour of the concrete surface) have been successfully implemented for over 20 years, alongside the more traditional "black" bituminous tanking membranes (tar products now being more or less obsolete). The impervious concrete elements eliminate the need for any additional waterproofing provision, e.g. using sheet or liquid membranes, and thereby stand in direct competition to such solutions. Waterproof concrete barriers are capable of withstanding very high water pressures of tens of metres head. This makes these systems a popular choice for:

• Tunnelling
• Power station engineering
• Sewage treatment works
• Potable water utilities (e.g. tanks and reservoirs)
• Building construction (buried elements)

Waterproof concrete (i.e. concrete with high resistance to water penetration) may be used for buried structures to provide a barrier against ground moisture, non-accumulating or temporarily accumulating seepage water as well internal and external water pressure.
The realization of watertight concrete structures depends on the meticulous co-ordination of wide-ranging engineering requirements and issues. Intrinsic to these systems is a string of performance and quality standards which are not always given due priority in everyday site practice or which are simply misunderstood or misconstrued.

The RASCOR White Tank system and associated (RASCOtec) joint units are amenable to installation in all weathers, paving the way for an up to 25% cut in construction time. The highly economical rectification of leaking joints and general maintenance achieved through use of RASCOR's permanently elastic, low-viscosity RASCOflex acrylic grout constitutes a further, decisive competitive edge. Appropriate incorporation of RASCOtec crack-inducing units and RASCOtec injection channels, in line with project requirements, also allows savings of up to 20% in the minimum shrinkage reinforcement required for crack limitation compared to similar products offered by our competitors.