PENETRON ADMIX Delivers Durable Concrete Protection for Genoa's Levante Waterfront

With much of the urban renewal project nearing completion, the Levante Waterfront in Genoa, Italy, is transforming the former exhibition center into a new seafront destination for events, recreation, and public access. PENETRON ADMIX, a crystalline waterproofing admixture, was specified to provide integral waterproofing and long-term durability for the project's new pedestrian tunnel and pier.

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 11, 2026 — Based on a master plan by architect Renzo Piano, the Levante Waterfront brings together a large urban park, a new dock, residences, offices, retail areas, and a renovated multifunctional sports arena.

"This is one of the most important urban renewal initiatives currently underway in Italy and the largest transformation Genoa has undertaken in four decades," adds Enricomaria Brac, CEO & Managing Director of Penetron Italy.

Waterfront construction operates in an unforgiving environment. Persistent moisture and continuous saltwater exposure can accelerate ingress through the pores and microcracks normally found in concrete. These marine conditions increase the risk of reinforcement corrosion, cracking, deterioration, and costly maintenance, particularly for infrastructure designed for intensive public use.

The pedestrian tunnel and pier required a reliable waterproofing solution capable of permanently protecting the concrete. By specifying PENETRON ADMIX, the project team adopted a straightforward waterproofing strategy without adding a separate membrane installation stage.

Added to the concrete mix during batching, the active ingredients in PENETRON ADMIX react with water and concrete minerals to form an insoluble crystalline network throughout the concrete's pores, capillaries, and microcracks. This integral protection helps reduce permeability, block pathways for water ingress, and extend the service life of concrete structures.

"Unlike a surface-applied barrier, the crystalline protection cannot be punctured, torn, or separated from the substrate," explains Enricomaria Brac. "It remains active within the concrete and can react in the presence of moisture to help seal future hairline cracks, providing lasting protection for structures exposed to marine conditions."

Connecting Genoa's waterfront and pier with the city center, the renovated pedestrian tunnel opened in April 2025 in conjunction with Euroflora 2025, when the international flower exhibition returned to Genoa's waterfront exhibition grounds. As development of the waterfront district continues, the tunnel provides safe, accessible passage to the renewed seafront district.

The Penetron Group is a leading manufacturer of specialty construction products for concrete waterproofing, concrete repair, and floor preparation systems. The Group operates through a global network, providing support to the design and construction community through its regional offices, representatives, and distribution channels.

SOURCE The Penetron Group