The Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) International Airport is one of the largest aviation hubs in the United States, serving over 38 million travelers in 2022 across its two terminal buildings. Ensuring this artery remains open and its infrastructure up to date and protected is vital for the regional economy and air transit system.
MSP Airport continuously engages in multiple expansions and restorations of its facilities. Notably, many restoration applications take place at curb areas in front of the arrival zones outside of the baggage claim. Because these areas see an incredibly dense convergence of activity day and night as flights arrive and depart, closing them off is not an option.
“Our team has deep knowledge and experience working on airport sites, so we were definitely prepared for the challenge at MSP,” says Jeff Holmgren, Regional Director, RAM Construction Services. “We typically install the site-appropriate waterproofing system in rolling stages, so the area is not entirely blocked off for extended periods of time.”
Proper restoration waterproofing design and product specification is crucial for the requirements of MSP airport. The specified system must be durable enough to withstand exposure to various chemicals, including de-icing agents and fuel spills. It needs to be flexible to accommodate structural movement due to temperature fluctuations and vibrations from automobile traffic on a suspended slab. Weather resistance is essential, and rapid installation is necessary, with quick application and curing times. Finally, the system must seamlessly integrate with existing waterproofing to ensure continuous, long-lasting protection.
On this project, EPRO’s HydroGel a hot spray-applied polymer rubber gel, was determined to be the ideal fit. The product boasts exceptional adhesive properties and high elasticity, allowing for productive installation. HydroGel has been successfully utilized in multiple waterproofing restoration applications, including numerous projects at MSP airport.
“A polymer rubber gel system is the ideal waterproofing solution for these types of sites because it is well-suited to restoration projects,” says Holmgren. “Its substrate adaptability reduces surface prep time, and the material’s low odor is key for workspaces directly adjacent to active areas that cannot be closed off from the public. Additionally, its spray application is a great productivity enhancer. Detailing transitions and terminations are critical elements in these installations due to the necessity of tying into previous installs.”
“We appreciate every opportunity to take on MSP airport projects,” Holmgren adds. “EPRO’s polymer rubber gel, HydroGel, checks all the boxes for the site conditions and needs. We are able to keep the work moving at a steady pace thanks to its ease of application and no cure times.”