# Experimental Study on Thermal Oxidative Aging Effects on the Performance and Compatibility of Different Types of Waterproofing Membranes

## TL;DR

This study examines how different waterproofing membranes perform and interact under thermal oxidative aging, revealing their strengths and weaknesses in composite systems.

## Contribution

The paper provides new insights into the compatibility and aging behavior of composite waterproofing membranes under thermal oxidative stress.

## Key findings

- The root penetration-resistant membrane shows the highest strength but is more brittle, while the polymer self-adhesive membrane offers better stability.
- Peel compatibility tests show that combining ultra-thin reinforced and polymer self-adhesive membranes improves peel strength and compatibility.
- Differences in reinforcement structure and polymer modification significantly influence the aging responses of the membranes.

## Abstract

As urbanization and extreme weather conditions intensify, the comprehensive performance requirements for building waterproofing systems are becoming more demanding. Single-layer waterproof membranes often struggle to meet usage requirements in complex environments, leading to the gradual rise of composite waterproof systems. This paper selects three different types of waterproof membranes, ultra-thin reinforced self-adhesive polymer-modified bitumen waterproof membrane, polymer self-adhesive waterproof membrane, and polymer-modified bitumen root penetration-resistant waterproof membrane, and conducts a systematic study on their compatibility and durability. Through tensile performance, low-temperature flexibility, and peel compatibility tests, combined with thermal oxidative aging experiments at different aging times, the mechanical behavior, low-temperature adaptability, and interfacial bonding characteristics of the membranes were analyzed. The results show that the three membranes differ significantly in tensile performance. The root penetration-resistant membrane has the highest strength but is more brittle, the polymer self-adhesive membrane has lower strength but better stability, and the ultra-thin reinforced membrane performs better initially but lacks durability. In terms of low-temperature flexibility, the root penetration-resistant membrane demonstrates superior crack resistance and aging resistance. These divergent aging responses are closely related to differences in reinforcement structure, polymer modification, and the thermal–oxidative sensitivity of the bituminous adhesive layers. Peel compatibility tests show that the peel strength of the composite membranes of the ultra-thin reinforced and polymer self-adhesive membranes is significantly improved, indicating a good synergistic effect and compatibility. Overall, different waterproof membranes exhibit distinct compatibility mechanisms and aging patterns in composite applications, providing a scientific basis for the design and optimization of composite waterproof systems.