Evaluation of the Long-term Underwater Durability of Sealants for Irrigation Channels

Abstract

In the joint repair work of irrigation channels, the joint filling method using sealants is often adopted for ease of construction and economic efficiency. However, some sealants used with the joint filling method generate deformations such as cracking and peeling within a few years following construction. In addition, their water stoppage often deteriorates. In this study, a test was conducted to confirm the water resistance and tensile properties of waterway sealants that have been submerged in water for a longer period as compared with those under the conventional test method. Results showed that the modified silicone-based sealant exhibited high water absorption and volume change rates as well as inferior water resistance. In addition, of the sealants examined in this test, the one-component modified silicone-based sealant and polyurethane-based sealant had changed tensile properties over a short period. They also exhibited greatly reduced adhesiveness when immersed in water for a long period.