Shop - Volclay Voltex

Over 50 years of proven performance

With over 50 years of proven performance Volclay Voltex is designed for both vertical and horizontal foundation surfaces. Voltex incorporates the high-swelling and self-sealing properties of sodium bentonite to form a monolithic, low permeable membrane to protect the structure from water ingress.

The high swelling, low permeable sodium bentonite is encapsulated between a non-woven and woven geotextile. A patented needle-punch process interlocks the geotextiles, forming an extremely strong composite that maintains the uniform coverage of bentonite, as well as protecting it from inclement weather and construction related damage.

Once covered with structural concrete or backfilled, Voltex hydrates and forms a monolithic waterproofing membrane; unconfined bentonite can swell up to 15 times its dry volume. When confined under pressure the swell is controlled, forming a dense, impervious waterproofing membrane. The swelling action of Voltex can self-seal small concrete cracks caused by ground settlement, concrete shrinkage, or seismic action; problems over which there is normally no control. Voltex forms a strong mechanical bond to concrete when the geotextile fibres are encapsulated into the surface of poured-in-place concrete.

VOLTEX is designed for below-ground vertical and horizontal structural foundation surfaces. Typical applications include backfilled pre-cast panels and concrete walls, earth covered roofs, structural slabs, tunnels and property line construction.

Resistance to puncturing:

The polypropylene geotextiles containing the bentonite are robust and resistant to normal site activities. The dropping of heavy articles will normally have no damaging effect on the membrane. Any accidental cuts will self heal when the membrane is hydrated following correct installation. Voltex self-healing properties also allow for the nailing of the product with conventional construction fasteners.

• B2 Durability: Performance B2.3.1 (a) not less than 50 years.

• E2 External moisture: Performance E2.3.3.

• F2 hazardous building materials: Performance F2.3.1. The Volclay Waterproofing System meets this requirement and will not present a health hazard to people.

The Volclay Waterproofing System is an approved Alternative Solution in terms of New Zealand Building Code compliance.

With the durability of the needlepunched composite and the ability to self-heal, Voltex offers major construction advantages over adhered sheet membrane and fluid applied waterproofing.

For contaminated water or salt-water conditions, Voltex is available with a contaminant resistant Volclay sodium bentonite – Voltex SWR.

Roll size & packaging:

Volclay Voltex is supplied in 5.5m² and 66.6m² (Super Sixty) rolls.

Limitations:

• VOLTEX should only be installed after substrate preparation has been properly completed and is suitable to receive the waterproofing system.

• VOLTEX is designed for below-grade waterproofing applications where the product is properly confined.

• VOLTEX products should not be installed in standing water or over ice. If groundwater contains strong acids, alkalies, or is of conductivity of 2,500 μmhos/cm or greater, water samples should be submitted to the manufacturer for compatibility testing.

• VOLTEX is not designed to waterproof expansion joints.

• Do not use VOLTEX on masonry block foundation walls (use Volclay Swelltite).

For further product information please see our frequently asked questions page