What Does
Crack-Bridging Membrane Mean?
Crack-bridging membrane refers to membrane that is used for bridging the crack of materials, such as epoxy coatings and paints. This membrane is flexible, solvent-free, low-VOC, and used where elongation is critical. Crack-bridging membrane can be used in wood, metals and concrete.
This flexible membrane bridges new cracks and relieves tensions produced from possible crack movements; therefore, it also protects from corrosion.
Corrosionpedia Explains Crack-Bridging Membrane
Crack-bridging membrane is a flexible epoxy membrane that is designed to provide protection to the upper layers when the concrete and other materials move and shift. Crack-bridging membrane is very thin layer-sealing membrane made from highly tear-resistant polyethylene film or epoxy resins.
Some beneficial features of crack-bridging membrane include:
- Excellent elongation
- Good bond strength
- High tear resistance
- Low coefficient of friction
- High tensile strength
- Low VOC
- Impact resistance
Crack-bridging membrane poses excellent flexible characteristics and retains these characteristics even at temperatures as low as -4ºF (-20ºC). It can withstand stress and movements in the substrate, and possesses excellent adhesion to many types of substrate. It also has good chemical and abrasion resistance and can be applied over a wide range temperatures. This membrane can be also used as waterproofing membrane and coating.
The thickness of the membrane is very important in bridging the crack. The crack's gap and the material where it is applied determines the minimum thickness of this membrane. The correct thickness and high tensile strength are more necessary than adhesion for watertight membrane.