As the water industry undertakes AMP8, there’s increased focus on long-term asset resilience. Moreover, there is a focus on environmental compliance, and reducing downtime across infrastructure projects. NATCEM® products such as our rapid waterproof mortar, NATCEM® 35, are already proving to be a valuable asset in this new landscape. Natural Cement materials boast a long history of successful applications in the water industry and in previous AMP cycles. This is how they offer a reliable, high-performance solution for the water industry as well as repair work that aligns with the key outcomes water companies are targeting.
Whether it’s a treatment works, a pumping station, dam, reservoir, or a below-ground asset at risk of groundwater ingress, a NATCEM® rapid waterproof mortar or grout provides fast-setting, fast-curing solutions. All of this without compromising environmental credentials.
In AMP8, reducing customer disruption and furthermore minimising downtime is a top priority. NATCEM® mortars are rapid-setting, typically achieving an initial set in just 35 – 40 minutes, depending on the product and conditions. Full strength develops quickly, often within just a few hours.
This fast-setting capability allows assets to be brought back online the same day — vital for emergency works or time-critical projects. For example: NATCEM® 35 can be mixed, applied, and left to cure within one day. This eliminates the need for lengthy shutdowns or traffic management interventions.
NATCEM® products contain no preservatives, additives, bonding agents, no resins, and no synthetics — and they’re DWI Reg.31 and WRAS approved for use in potable water applications. Their low carbon footprint (compared with traditional cements) and natural binder formulation make them a strong choice for environmentally responsible frameworks.
This supports water companies’ efforts under AMP8 to meet Net Zero goals while also ensuring health and safety compliance on site.
NATCEM® mortars are inherently waterproof due to the binder’s mineral composition. Developed from argillaceous limestone, the natural cement binder forms a dense matrix upon hydration. Unlike traditional OPC-based mixes, which may require additives to improve water resistance, NATCEM® mortars are waterproof by design — offering permanent protection even under hydrostatic pressure.
In tunnel linings, culverts, tanks as well as basements, NATCEM® has been used to excellent effect. This provides not just a barrier to water but furthermore a solution that prevents leaching, degradation, and future ingress.
NATCEM® isn’t just fast — it’s tough. With high early and final strengths, excellent adhesion, and low shrinkage, these materials resist impact, abrasion, and freeze-thaw cycles. This makes them particularly well-suited to locations where a surface may be subject to wear or loading, such as access chambers, spillways, and plant floors.
NATCEM® products retain their performance without crumbling or delaminating. This strength profile aligns well with AMP8’s “right-first-time” emphasis, reducing the need for repeat interventions or patch repairs.
NATCEM® mortars can be used at temperatures as low as 0°C, making them a trusted solution for winter works and higher-altitude sites. Their resistance to frost damage during curing eliminates the risk of failure in cold snaps, and there’s no need for thermal blankets or additives.
This extends the working season for contractors and increases programme certainty — another key concern during AMP8 delivery cycles, particularly with tight outage windows.
From pump sumps and bunds to wet wells and aqueducts, NATCEM® waterproofing mortars provide the kind of resilience and rapid performance the AMP8 era demands. With proven compatibility in potable water infrastructure, unmatched versatility in wet or cold environments, and a durable, sustainable formulation, NATCEM® is helping the water industry repair, protect, and modernise its assets — efficiently and without compromise.
Trust NATCEM® when failure isn’t an option.
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t: 01226 381133
Date added: 22/04/2025