Published by: ADT Industries, Date: 29th July 2025

Seal It Right from the Start: Why ADT Mix LW+ Is India’s Smartest Integral Waterproofing Solution

The Science of Waterproofing: Why Concrete Fails

While concrete appears to be a solid and durable material, a closer examination under a microscope reveals a complex internal structure filled with numerous pores and micro-capillaries. These tiny channels, which often go unnoticed, play a significant role in the material's behaviour. They enable the infiltration of water, salts, and various aggressive chemicals, which can gradually permeate the concrete. As these substances seep in, they initiate a series of chemical reactions and physical processes that can compromise the integrity and strength of the structure over time. This breakdown can lead to issues such as cracking, spalling, and overall deterioration, emphasising the importance of understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities of concrete in construction and maintenance.

Common Damage Due to Moisture Ingress:

Steel Reinforcement Corrosion – rusting weakens the core
Efflorescence – white salt deposits on plaster
Cracking – due to drying shrinkage and water movement
Seepage in bathrooms, balconies, and tanks
Fungal and algae growth – leading to unhealthy interiors

Fact: More than 70% of water-related concrete failures in India are traced to insufficient internal waterproofing, as per IS 2645:2003 studies.

Traditional Waterproofing vs. Integral Waterproofing

Traditional Methods:

Surface coatings, membranes, and post-construction treatments are essential components in construction and maintenance projects aimed at enhancing durability and protection. Surface coatings, which can include paint, sealants, and protective films, provide a barrier that helps resist moisture, chemicals, and abrasion. Membranes, often made from materials like rubber or thermoplastic, are specifically designed to offer waterproofing and prevent water infiltration in various structures, such as roofs and basements. Post-construction treatments, which encompass applications like waterproofing agents and curing compounds, work on surfaces after the initial construction is completed to further safeguard against wear and environmental damage.

While these solutions are incredibly useful for improving the longevity and performance of buildings, they tend to be reactive rather than proactive. Over time, exposure to environmental elements, wear and tear, and chemical interactions can lead to the degradation of these materials, potentially compromising their effectiveness and necessitating maintenance or replacement.

Limitation	Traditional Methods
Requires surface preparation	Yes
Prone to wear and weather	UV, heat, and abrasion damage
Risk of incomplete coverage	High – especially around edges, joints
Maintenance cycle	Re-application every 3–5 years
Internal protection	❌ Not provided

Integral Waterproofing:

This innovative technology safeguards concrete from the inside out during the mixing process. By working at the molecular level, it effectively prevents water from penetrating the material, guaranteeing a lasting waterproof solution. This means that the concrete not only remains resilient against water damage but also enhances its overall durability, making it suitable for various applications where moisture resistance is crucial.

What Is ADT Mix LW+? Understanding the Product

ADT Mix LW+ is a liquid integral waterproofing compound developed by ADT Industries, engineered to meet Indian site conditions and IS 2645:2003 guidelines.

Key Properties:

Liquid Formulation – easy to mix, no clumping
IS 2645:2003 Certified
Chloride-Free – safe for reinforcement
Non-toxic and Eco-friendly
Compatible with OPC, PPC, and blended cements

How ADT Mix LW+ Works: The Internal Shield Mechanism

Once mixed into concrete or mortar, ADT Mix LW+ reacts chemically with calcium hydroxide released during cement hydration. This reaction:

Fills capillaries and micro-cracks
Forms a hydrophobic (water-repelling) barrier
Enhances the density and cohesion of the mix
Prevents future ingress of water, salt, and harmful chemicals

This mechanism turns the entire volume of concrete into a self-protecting, water-resistant material.

Key Functional Features of ADT Mix LW+

Feature	Description & Advantage
Liquid Form	Easy dosing, faster mixing, no manual lump breaking
Capillary Blocking	Form crystals that block water paths permanently
Shrinkage Control	Minimizes cracks due to shrinkage or bleeding
Water Reduction	Improves workability and reduces water demand by up to 15%
No Setting Time Delay	Does not interfere with cement hydration
Enhanced Durability	Ideal for coastal, humid, and chemically aggressive conditions
Improves Compressive Strength	Denser structure leads to longer life

🔍 Use of ADT Mix LW+ results in more compact concrete with fewer voids — improving both structural performance and waterproofing in one step.

Dosage Guidelines and Application Process

Recommended Dosage:

100 ml to 250 ml per 50 kg of cement (0.2%–0.5% by weight)

Mixing Process:

Pre-measure the required quantity of ADT Mix LW+.
Add it to the first portion of gauging water.
Mix thoroughly into the concrete/mortar.
Add the remaining water and mix until uniform.
Apply and cure as per standard practice.

Important:

Do not overdose; this may slightly delay setting time.
Ensure proper mixing for full dispersion.

Where to Use ADT Mix LW+

Ideal for:

RCC Roof Slabs and Screeds
Bathrooms and Wet Areas
Plastering (internal and external)
Basements and Retaining Walls
Overhead Water Tanks and Sumps
Balconies, Podiums, Swimming Pools
Tunnels, Dams, and Drainage Structures

Performance Comparison: ADT Mix LW+ vs Other Solutions

Property	ADT Mix LW+	Membrane Coating	Powder Admixture
Waterproofing Type	Integral (Internal)	Surface Applied	Manual Integral
Application Error Risk	❌ Very Low	⚠️ High	⚠️ Moderate
Resistance to UV & Heat	✅ Excellent	❌ Poor	✅ Good
Shrinkage Crack Reduction	✅ Yes	❌ No	⚠️ Sometimes
Water Reduction	✅ Yes	❌ No	⚠️ Minor
IS Code Compliance	✅ IS 2645:2003	❌ Often not tested	⚠️ Variable