Xypex continues to advance its position as the preferred technology for concrete waterproofing and protection of major building landmarks in Vietnam. Most recently, and still in progress, is the significant role Xypex is playing in the waterproofing of the foundation concrete and diaphragm walls in the Vietcombank Tower (‘Tower’). This 35-story landmark, designed by architects Pelli Clarke Pelli (Petronas Twin Towers in Malaysia) will be the Ho Chi Minh headquarters for the Vietcombank, one of the countries largest banks.
The Vietcombank Tower is located on the west bank of the Saigon River. This close proximity to the river means that considerable hydrostatic pressure and a high water table are to be expected, with the problems becoming more extreme in the rainy season. In fact, these problems are typical below-grade problems for most buildings in the area and Bachy Soletanch Vietnam (“Bachy”) has consistently been the contractor retained to provide the necessary experience and product knowledge. In each case, Bachy chose Xypex crystalline waterproofing products over all others because of their proven capability in resisting hydrostatic pressure even under extreme conditions.
The ‘Tower’ is one of the highest profile structures in the city and, as such, the owners have insisted on the best quality in all areas of construction – including concrete waterproofing. Initially, Bachy used Xypex to repair defective concrete at all leakage points in the diaphragm wall construction joints and to seal all rebar penetration along the perimeter of the basement slab. This successful application, completed in November 2012, encouraged owners to insist on Xypex Concentrate, for the overall waterproofing and protection of all four levels of the diaphragm walls (3000 sq m + 1300 m construction joints).
The project is ongoing.
