Squareseal
Rectangular hydro-expansive rubber gasket for metal blade formwork spacers
Drykos® Squareseal is a rectangular hydro-expansive gasket with a central through-hole measuring 19 × 2 mm, made of special hydro-reactive rubber that significantly increases its initial volume upon contact with water.
The product is specifically designed for use in combination with metal spacers for wooden blade formwork, ensuring hermetic sealing of spacer penetration points in concrete pours.
The presence of spacers can create discontinuities in the concrete matrix, potentially extending from one side of the structure to the other, compromising the waterproofing of the work. The hydro-expansive action of Drykos® Squareseal compensates for such discontinuities, effectively sealing the critical point and preventing water infiltration.
The expansion capacity of the material has been verified through laboratory testing under different environmental conditions (demineralized water, salt water, and highly alkaline pH environments simulating contact with concrete). Tests have shown volumetric variation ranging approximately from 200% in salt water to over 900% in demineralized water, confirming the high reactivity of the material in various application contexts.
The standard version of Drykos® Squareseal is sized for metal blade spacers commonly used in construction, with an approximate width of 20 mm, in both straight/flat configuration and twisted version, the latter designed to reduce the risk of non-conformity during pouring operations.
Features
Main features
- Ensures waterproof sealing of metal spacer penetration points in concrete
- Automatic hydro-expansive action upon contact with water, without requiring external activation
- Effectively compensates for discontinuities and micro-voids generated by the presence of the spacer
- Prevents the formation of through-channels within the masonry
- High expansion capacity even under different environmental conditions (fresh water, salt water, and alkaline environments)
- Improves the durability and waterproofing of concrete structures
- Compatible with the most common metal spacers for wooden blade formwork
- Simple and rapid installation during formwork assembly
- Passive, reliable, and permanent system over time
Fields of application
- Sealing of metal blade spacers used in wooden formwork
- Reinforced concrete structures requiring high waterproofing
- Underground or earth-retaining structures
- Foundation walls, retaining walls, and concrete partitions
- Tanks, technical rooms, and structures subject to water presence
- Civil, industrial, and infrastructure works
- All applications where it is necessary to prevent water infiltration through spacer penetration points
Technical specifications
Packaging
Color
Blue.
Appearance
Rubber element.
Storage
24 months from production date.
Storage conditions
The product is sensitive to moisture and must be stored exclusively in intact original containers, in a dry and protected environment. Storage temperature must be between +5°C and +35°C.
Application data
Theoretical consumption
6-8 pieces per square meter
Yield
1 piece for each “blade” formwork spacer
Application temperatures (substrate and environment)
Minimum +5°C | Maximum +35°C
Application info
Product preparation
Before installation, verify that the metal spacers for wooden blade formwork are clean, intact, and correctly positioned. To facilitate gasket insertion, use the dedicated Drykos® Clamp 3 Points pliers, specifically designed for installing Drykos® Squareseal.
Application
Fully insert the pliers’ jaws, in closed position, into the slot of the rectangular Drykos® Squareseal gasket, ensuring the tool is correctly seated.
Apply progressive and controlled pressure to the handles to achieve uniform expansion of the gasket. With the gasket in a state of mechanical expansion, proceed to position it at the centerline of the metal spacer blade, verifying correct centering relative to the formwork thickness.
Once installed in the intended position, gradually release pressure on the pliers’ handles, allowing elastic recovery of the material and consequent stable locking of the gasket on the spacer. Then remove the pliers, completing the installation operation. Subsequently, proceed with formwork assembly and concrete pouring operations according to standard site practices.
Upon contact with water or moisture, Drykos® Squareseal will activate its hydro-expansive action, increasing in volume and ensuring permanent sealing of the spacer penetration point within the concrete.
Other indications
- Verify that metal blade spacers are intact, correctly positioned, and free from dirt, oils, or other contaminants that could compromise proper gasket installation
- Use exclusively the Drykos® Clamp 3 Points pliers or suitable tools to avoid damage or deformation of the gasket during installation
- Do not exceed mechanical expansion of the gasket; over-expansion may compromise its elastic and functional characteristics
- Ensure that Drykos® Squareseal is correctly centered relative to the spacer centerline before releasing the pliers
- Avoid installation on deformed or non-conforming spacers
- During formwork and pouring phases, verify that the gasket remains in position and does not undergo displacement
- Protect the product from prolonged contact with water before pouring, to avoid premature activation of the hydro-expansive action
- Store gaskets in a dry and protected environment until installation
- For matters not covered, contact Technical Support at +39 0171 1874992 or write to [email protected]
Environment and safety
Safety
The product is classified as an article and, in accordance with Regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 (REACH), does not require a Safety Data Sheet. During handling and use operations, the use of adequate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and protective eyewear, is recommended, along with compliance with safety procedures established in the workplace.
Use
Product for professional use.