Degradation of PVC Waterproofing Membrane containing Plasticizers

Abstract Durability and repairability are one of the basic conditions for the economically efficient use of building materials. The actual lifetime of PVC waterproofing membrane is not only affected by the ageing of the materials, but also by the ageing of the joints. Thus, a significant phenomenon in the evaluation of the lifetime of roof cladding is its realisation - welding. Plasticizers are used for the production of PVC waterproofing membrane. The migration of the plasticizers and the quantity of non-combustible residues (fillers) influence the service life (durability) and the possibility of subsequent repair. Methods used to determine the quantity of non-combustible residues and quantity of plasticizers are described in the paper. Samples were taken from roofs with degrading roofing layer. Based on the results, the lifetime of the PVC waterproofing membrane was determined in dependence on the plasticizers.