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Mapei Mapeproof Swell: A Technical Overview
Mapei Mapeproof Swell is a one-component, hydro-expansive hydrophilic sealant paste supplied in 320 ml cartridges. It bonds to clean, slightly damp concrete and expands ≥100 % on contact with water. When properly confined, it forms a tough, elastic seal that resists hydrostatic pressure, making it ideal for pipe sleeves, cold joints, formwork spacers, and service outlets.
≥ 100 %
Volumetric Expansion in Water
Core Features & Specifications
- Hydro-expansive seal: minimum 100 % swelling actively fills voids for leak-tight joints.
- High elasticity: > 700 % elongation flexes with concrete movement without cracking.
- Mechanical strength: Shore A 32, tensile 2.5 N/mm², tear strength 10 N/mm — stays secure under pressure.
- Application-ready paste: thixotropic, smooth extrusion bead (6–13 mm) for precise installation.
- Moisture-tolerant: bonds to clean, slightly damp substrates — no delays waiting for full drying.
- Controlled curing: skin forms 180–200 min, cures ~ 2 mm/9 h at 23 °C & 50 % RH.
- Long shelf life: 12 months at +15 °C to +25 °C in unopened cartridges.
The Mapei Mapeproof Swell Advantage
- Professional leak control that stands up to hydrostatic pressure.
- Minimises call-backs by stopping water tracking and seepage first time.
- Fast, neat application — saves time on-site and reduces labour costs.
- Durable, non-corrosive and insoluble for long-term protection.
Proactive Troubleshooting
Scenario: Applied Without Confinement
Potential Outcome: Bead expands outward, debonds or extrudes, causing leaks.
Adheseal Best Practice: Always apply in a rebate, chase or groove and confine with mortar or concrete to ensure hydrostatic performance.
Scenario: Dirty or Weak Substrate
Potential Outcome: Adhesion fails and water bypasses the bead.
Adheseal Best Practice: Mechanically clean, degrease with ethanol if required, and apply only to sound, slightly damp surfaces.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Waterproofers: Pipe Penetration Sealing
The Professional's Challenge
Water leaks along pipe sleeves causing site delays and callbacks.
The Adheseal Solution
Cut a rebate around the pipe, extrude a 6–13 mm bead of Mapei Mapeproof Swell, then backfill to fully confine. Hydro-expansion ensures a pressure-rated seal.
Best Practice Note
Degrease metal pipes, tool bead evenly, and ensure complete confinement to avoid extrusion.
For Remedial Contractors: Cold Joint Repair
The Professional's Challenge
Live leaks through construction joints where direct sealant placement is not possible.
The Adheseal Solution
Stop flow with a fast-setting plug, chase joint to ≥ 6 cm depth, extrude Mapei Mapeproof Swell, and confine with repair mortar both sides.
Best Practice Note
Compact mortar well to eliminate voids and maintain a continuous barrier against water ingress.
For Pool Builders: Outlet & Fixture Detailing
The Professional's Challenge
Sealing lights, drains and fittings in constantly wet, high-pressure environments.
The Adheseal Solution
Apply bead inside recess, install fixture or mortar to confine. Expansion maintains a tight seal even under pressure.
Best Practice Note
Do not overfill; use bead size that fits the recess so expansion is fully contained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Mapeproof Swell be applied to damp concrete?
Yes. Mapeproof Swell bonds to slightly damp surfaces as long as they are clean and solid. There must be no standing water on the surface before application to ensure proper adhesion and expansion.
What bead size should I use?
The recommended bead diameter is 6–13 mm. Cut the nozzle at the first line to achieve this size for optimal expansion and sealing performance.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Sealing pipe penetrations and outlets | Creates watertight seal to prevent leakage | Builders, Plumbers |
| Cold joint and crack injection | Expands ≥ 100% to fill voids and resist hydrostatic pressure | Waterproofers, Concrete Contractors |
| Swimming pools and tanks | Maintains seal under constant water exposure | Pool Builders, Remedial Specialists |
Applying Mapei Mapeproof Swell: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Clean and remove all dust, debris, oil, and standing water. For cracked concrete, chase and widen cracks to at least 6 cm depth.
Timing: Prepare surface immediately before application to avoid contamination.Pro Tip: Use compressed air or a clean brush to remove fine dust for maximum adhesion. -
Application & Confinement
Cut nozzle to 6–13 mm opening, pierce cartridge seal, and extrude a continuous bead. Confinement is essential: embed in joint, cover with formwork or Mapegrout T40 before pour.
Timing: Wait until product has fully set before pouring concrete.Pro Tip: Keep cartridge at room temperature (+15 °C to +25 °C) for smooth extrusion.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not suitable for surface-only applications – must always be confined to function properly.
Do not apply to dirty, weak, or highly contaminated surfaces (acid/solvent exposure).
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing to avoid skin and eye contact.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Avoid inhalation of vapours in enclosed spaces.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Swallowed:
Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention.
Mapei Mapeproof Swell Application Guide
Concrete & Mortar Joints
Surface Preparation
Remove dust, laitance, and loose particles. Break out cracks to 6 cm depth if required. Substrate may be damp but free of standing water.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Direct adhesion to clean concrete is sufficient. Ensure substrate is sound and free of contaminants.
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