Following a major infrastructure upgrade at the water reservoir dam, groundwater seepage was detected along the downstream face and through joints in the newly upgraded concrete structures. Left unresolved, this infiltration could have compromised the effectiveness of the recent upgrades. Traditional remediation options—such as excavation, pressure grouting, or reconstruction—would have been expensive, time-consuming, and environmentally disruptive. The owner required a precise, non-invasive method to permanently stop the leaks, protect the new works, and maintain public and environmental safety.
Poly-Mor Canada was engaged to provide a geotechnical polyurethane injection solution engineered specifically for water infiltration control in critical infrastructure. Using small-diameter injection ports strategically placed along the seepage zones, technicians injected a high-performance hydrophobic polyurethane resin into the leaking interfaces and voids.
The geotechnical polyurethane resin expanded rapidly—up to several times its liquid volume—displacing the groundwater and forming an impermeable seal throughout the affected areas. The material is bonded to both concrete and soil, creating a continuous water barrier capable of withstanding the hydraulic pressures typical of a dam environment.
Unlike cementitious or chemical grouts, the polyurethane system required no excavation, curing downtime, or heavy equipment. Work was completed from the accessible dam face, allowing operations to continue uninterrupted. The quick-reacting, environmentally inert material ensured minimal impact on surrounding soils and water quality while delivering long-term watertight integrity.
The polyurethane injection successfully stopped all active leakage, sealing the concrete joints and surrounding subgrade to create a watertight barrier across the seepage path. Post-injection monitoring confirmed a complete cessation of groundwater infiltration and restoration of design performance standards.
For the project owner, the results delivered measurable benefits:
Permanent Leak Elimination – Active water infiltration was stopped immediately and permanently.
Non-Disruptive Repair – No excavation or shutdown of dam operations was required, saving time and resources.
Environmental Protection – The inert, NSF-certified polyurethane prevented soil erosion and posed no environmental risk.
Structural Longevity – The water-resistant seal will accommodate future settlement or movement without re-leaking.
Cost Efficiency – A targeted injection approach minimized materials, labour, and environmental restoration costs compared to traditional methods.
