The resilience of 30 Hudson Yards, an iconic skyscraper situated in a challenging 100-year flood plain above an active rail yard, underscores the critical role of innovative waterproofing technologies in modern construction. The building's foundation, protected by Kryton International's Krystol Internal Membrane (KIM®) and associated technologies, has remained completely watertight six years post-completion, a testament to the effectiveness of these solutions in preventing water infiltration and ensuring structural integrity.
Following the lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the engineering team behind 30 Hudson Yards prioritized robust waterproofing measures to safeguard the building's underground infrastructure. Kryton's technologies, which enable concrete to self-seal cracks and block water indefinitely, were applied to key structural elements including the base slab, elevator pits, and flood retention tank. This approach not only addressed the immediate challenges posed by the site's location but also set a new standard for construction in environmentally sensitive urban areas.
The success of 30 Hudson Yards' waterproofing strategy has broader implications for the construction industry, particularly in urban environments vulnerable to flooding and water-related damage. The building's achievement of LEED Gold certification and its attraction of prominent Fortune 500 tenants further validate the importance of integrating advanced technological solutions into the design and construction process. As Kevin Yuers, Kryton's Vice President for Product Development, noted, the project exemplifies how subterranean infrastructure, often overlooked, is crucial to the long-term sustainability and resilience of urban developments.
For more information on Kryton's waterproofing technologies, visit https://www.kryton.com. The story of 30 Hudson Yards serves as a compelling case study for architects and engineers worldwide, demonstrating how innovative materials and technologies can overcome the challenges posed by complex geographical and environmental conditions.
