ISU

The ISU project, which we initiated to protect and deliver clean water, one of Kocaeli's most valuable resources, aimed to provide a permanent solution to the water insulation problem in a massive area of 28,000 square meters. Our goal was to ensure the water tightness of the critical pools in Kocaeli's freshwater treatment plants – Monitoring and Pre-Sedimentation Pool, Coagulation and Flocculation Pool, Filtration Pool, Disinfection Pool, Storage and Distribution Pools – thereby preventing water loss and increasing the efficiency of the treatment processes. Potential water losses in these pools could pose not only a financial loss but also an environmental threat. At the heart of the project were the superior materials we selected. First, we used epoxy primer to prepare the concrete surface and increase adhesion. The epoxy primer created a smooth surface by filling the pores on the concrete surface, while also ensuring that the polyurea coating adhered firmly to the concrete. Then, we applied 2 mm thick pure polyurea, which forms the backbone of the waterproofing. Since polyurea has a certificate of conformity for contact with drinking water, it was a safe choice for human health. In addition, polyurea's high elasticity, crack bridging property, and fast curing time perfectly met the project's requirements. Finally, we applied aliphatic paint to increase UV resistance and provide an aesthetic appearance. The application process consisted of meticulously planned steps. First, we cleaned the algae and other contaminants on the pool surfaces with water jetting. Then, we sanded the concrete surface with a diamond-tipped hand grinder to obtain a smooth and clean surface. This process ensured that the polyurea adhered better to the concrete. In the two large facilities in Kocaeli and the treatment plants in eighteen small villages, we repaired broken, cracked, and burst areas by mixing epoxy and silica sand. We then performed the epoxy primer application, preparing the surface for polyurea application. Finally, we applied 2 mm thick pure polyurea by spraying. Thanks to the rapid curing property of polyurea, the insulation was completed in a short time. Finally, we completed the project by applying aliphatic paint.