Advanced Waterproofing Technology Ensures Long-Term Resilience for Hudson Yards Skyscraper

The 30 Hudson Yards skyscraper's foundation durability in a challenging 100-year flood plain above an active rail yard is largely attributed to Kryton International's waterproofing technologies. Following Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the engineering team recognized the critical need for robust waterproofing solutions and selected Kryton's Krystol Internal Membrane (KIM®) and associated technologies to address complex underground infrastructure challenges. This innovative approach focused on key structural elements including the base slab, elevator pits, flood retention tank, and underground facilities.

Kryton's technologies enable concrete to self-seal cracks and block water indefinitely, with compression sealing power significantly exceeding conventional methods. Six years after completion, 30 Hudson Yards' foundation remains completely watertight—a remarkable achievement in an environment prone to water-related structural degradation. The building has since attracted prominent Fortune 500 tenants and achieved LEED Gold certification, underscoring the success of its advanced technological infrastructure. Kevin Yuers, Kryton's Vice President for Product Development, emphasized that design excellence extends beyond visible architectural elements, noting that the subterranean infrastructure represents a masterful combination of design, materials, and skilled workmanship that ensures long-term structural sustainability.

The project highlights the growing importance of innovative waterproofing technologies in modern construction, particularly in challenging urban environments susceptible to environmental stressors. By preventing water intrusion and potential concrete corrosion, Kryton's solutions offer architects and engineers a sophisticated approach to maintaining structural integrity. As urban development continues to expand in complex geographical contexts, technologies like those demonstrated at 30 Hudson Yards will become increasingly critical in creating resilient, sustainable infrastructure that can withstand environmental challenges. The successful implementation at this landmark development serves as a model for future construction projects in flood-prone areas, demonstrating how advanced materials science can address one of construction's most persistent challenges.

For more information about the technologies used in this project, visit https://www.kryton.com. The building's achievement of LEED Gold certification further validates the environmental benefits of such durable construction approaches, which reduce long-term maintenance needs and resource consumption. This case study illustrates how proactive engineering solutions can mitigate risks associated with climate change and extreme weather events, providing valuable insights for urban planners and developers working in similar challenging environments throughout the New York City metropolitan area and beyond.