1. Introduction: The Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Waterproofing
The global construction industry is undergoing a green transformation. Architects, contractors, and asset owners are no longer satisfied with products that merely “work”—they demand solutions that are high-performance, safe for the environment, and compliant with international health standards.
Enter AQUAFLEX 590 ECO, a premium liquid-applied waterproofing membrane based on waterborne polyurethane technology. Engineered to meet the most stringent requirements of modern construction. Whether you are waterproofing a potable water tank, a green roof terrace, or a balcony in a residential complex, AQUAFLEX 590 ECO delivers the durability of traditional polyurethane with the safety of water-based technology.
2. What is AQUAFLEX 590 ECO?
AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is a single-component, waterborne polyurethane coating designed for waterproofing and protective applications. Unlike solvent-based polyurethanes that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during application, AQUAFLEX 590 ECO uses water as the dispersion medium, making it safe for indoor use and sensitive environments.
Key Technology:
Waterborne Polyurethane Dispersion (PUD): Provides excellent film formation and elasticity.
Zero VOC Formulation: Safe for applicators and end-users.
UV Stability: Suitable for exposed applications without top coating.
3. Why Choose AQUAFLEX 590 ECO as Your Liquid Waterproofing Membrane?
Unlike sheet membranes that require cutting and sealing at seams, liquid-applied membraneslike AQUAFLEX 590 ECO form a seamless, monolithic barrier. This makes them ideal for complex shapes, penetrations, and details found in concrete roofs, balconies, and water tanks.
Many specifiers hesitate when switching from traditional solvent-based systems. Here is a direct comparison to illustrate why AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is superior for specific applications:
| Feature | AQUAFLEX 590 ECO (Waterborne) | Traditional Solvent-Based PU |
|---|---|---|
| VOC Content | < 50 g/L (meets LEED v4 standards) | High (400-800 g/L) |
| Odor | Low, non-irritating | Strong, requires ventilation |
| Clean-Up | Water and soap | Solvents (toxic) |
| Adhesion to Damp Substrate | Excellent (can be applied on slightly damp surfaces) | Requires bone-dry substrate |
| Potable Water Approval | Yes (when certified) | Rarely approved |
| Flammability | Non-flammable (water-based) | Flammable |
Conclusion: AQUAFLEX 590 ECO offers peace of mind during application and throughout the building’s lifecycle.
4. Key Features and Technical Specifications
To make an informed decision, engineers and procurement managers need data. Below are the verified specifications for AQUAFLEX 590 ECO:
| Parameter | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Milky white liquid (dries to semi-gloss) | Visual |
| Solid Content | 55% ± 2% | ASTM D1644 |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 2.5 MPa | ASTM D412 |
| Elongation at Break | ≥ 450% | ASTM D412 |
| Water Vapor Permeability | Low (Class I) | ASTM E96 |
| Adhesion to Concrete | ≥ 1.5 MPa | ASTM D4541 |
| Application Temperature | +5°C to +35°C | – |
| Recoat Time | 4-6 hours (at 25°C, 60% RH) | – |
What These Numbers Mean for Your Project:
450% Elongation: The coating can bridge hairline cracks caused by building settlement or thermal expansion.
55% Solids: High film build with fewer coats, saving labor costs.
Adhesion ≥ 1.5 MPa: Equivalent to the tensile strength of the concrete itself—the coating won’t peel off.
5. Primary Applications: Where Does AQUAFLEX 590 ECO Excel?
A. Potable Water Tanks (Drinking Water)
This is the flagship application for AQUAFLEX 590 ECO. When coating the interior of concrete or metal tanks storing drinking water, safety is paramount. AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is formulated to prevent bacterial growth and leach zero contaminants.
Requirement: Must meet NSF/ANSI 61 or WRAS approvals (verify your specific certification).
Advantage: Creates a seamless, non-toxic barrier that protects water quality and prevents concrete corrosion.
B. Green Roofs and Terraces
Green roofs involve planting vegetation over waterproofing layers. Roots, fertilizers, and standing water create a highly aggressive environment.
Why AQUAFLEX 590 ECO: It is root-resistant (when used with appropriate reinforcement) and resistant to bio-degradation. Its waterborne nature means less environmental impact if any runoff occurs during planting.
C. Balconies and Walkways
Foot traffic requires abrasion resistance.
Finish: AQUAFLEX 590 ECO can be finished with a textured topcoat for slip resistance.
D. Wet Areas (Bathrooms, Laundries)
Before tiling, AQUAFLEX 590 ECO provides a flexible waterproof membrane that integrates perfectly with tile adhesives.
6. Application Guide: Step-by-Step
To achieve the 10-year expected service life, proper application is critical. Follow this professional guide:
Step 1: Surface Preparation (The Most Important Step)
Concrete/Masonry: Surface must be clean, free of laitance, oil, and curing compounds. Achieve a “saturated surface dry” (SSD) condition. The surface should be damp but no standing water.
Method: High-pressure water jetting or mechanical grinding is recommended.
Step 2: Priming
For porous concrete, dilute AQUAFLEX 590 ECO with 10-20% clean water and apply one thin coat as a primer. This ensures penetration and seals the substrate.
Step 3: Mixing
Stir gently with a low-speed drill to avoid air bubbles. Do not add solvents or thinners.
Step 4: Application
Tools: Short-nap roller or airless spray.
Number of Coats: Apply at least 2 coats, preferably 3 for critical applications like water tanks.
Consumption: Approx. 0.8 – 1.2 kg/m² per 2 coats (depending on substrate roughness).
Re-coat Interval: Wait for the first coat to be touch-dry (usually 2-4 hours) but not more than 24 hours to ensure inter-coat adhesion.
Step 5: Curing
Protect from rain and heavy dew for 24 hours. Full cure is achieved in 7 days.
7. Compatibility: Can You Use It with Other Products?
AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is designed as a stand-alone system but can be integrated into complex specifications:
Overlap with Membranes: When used on parapet walls, it can be lapped onto WeatherShield TPO membranes or SBS membranes using proper priming techniques. Consult our technical team for transition details.
Reinforcement: For joints or cracks, embed a non-woven polyester fabric between coats of AQUAFLEX 590 ECO for added strength.
8. Environmental and Safety Certifications
As a supplier committed to global standards, AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is manufactured to comply with:
LEED v4 / BREEAM: Contributes to EQ Credit (Low Emitting Materials).
ISO 14001: Manufactured under environmental management systems.
REACH Compliance: Free from SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern).
Note: Please request the latest Technical Data Sheet (TDS) and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for country-specific certifications like WRAS (UK), KIWA (Netherlands), or NSF (USA).
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can AQUAFLEX 590 ECO be applied on metal surfaces?
While primarily designed for concrete and masonry, it adheres to prepared metal. For dedicated metal applications, we recommend our MetalShield 200 system. Contact us for advice.
Q2: What is the shelf life?
12 months in original, unopened container. Store in a cool, dry place, protected from freezing (temperatures above +5°C).
Q3: Is it UV stable? Will it yellow?
Yes, it is UV stable. Being aliphatic polyurethane, it resists yellowing and chalking, making it suitable for topcoat applications.
Q4: Can I apply it in cold weather?
Minimum application temperature is +5°C and rising. Application below this temperature affects film formation and long-term performance.
Q5: How is it different from epoxy coatings?
Epoxies are hard and rigid; AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is flexible. For moving substrates (concrete cracks, thermal expansion), polyurethane is superior. For heavy abrasion (factory floors), epoxy may be preferred.
Q: How is AQUAFLEX 590 ECO liquid membrane different from sheet membranes like TPO or PVC?
A: Sheet membranes (such as our WeatherShield TPO or RootGard PVC) are prefabricated and ideal for large, flat areas. AQUAFLEX 590 ECO liquid membrane, on the other hand, is applied as a fluid that cures to form a seamless elastomeric film. It excels on complex details, vertical surfaces, and areas with many penetrations. For many projects, the best solution is a hybrid system: sheet membranes for the field area and liquid membrane for details and terminations.
10. Conclusion and Call to Action
AQUAFLEX 590 ECO represents the pinnacle of eco-friendly waterproofing technology. It combines the high-performance characteristics of polyurethane with the safety and sustainability of water-based chemistry.
Whether you are an engineer specifying materials for a landmark green building, a contractor seeking a reliable coating for a drinking water reservoir, or a distributor looking to expand your portfolio of sustainable construction chemicals, AQUAFLEX 590 ECO is the solution you have been searching for.
Ready to specify or purchase?
Contact Our Technical Support Team
Contact information: WhatsApp: +86-13153030995
E-mail: info@ylc-waterproofing.com