The effect of hydrophobic (silane) treatment on concrete durability characteristics

Abstract

Hydrophobic (silane) impregnation represents a cost-effective way to increase the durability of concrete structures in cases where insufficient design cover quality and depth have been achieved. The water repellent product lines the internal capillary pore structure and provides a water-repellent concrete surface. Thus, the risk of reinforcement corrosion initiation and subsequent deterioration can be reduced as the ingress of water-dissolved aggressive species (chlorides) is minimised or prevented. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of silane impregnation on durability indicators, including penetrability tests and chloride ingress (bulk diffusion). The results indicate that silane impregnation reduces capillary absorption and conductivity of chloride ions. Similarly, chloride ingress in the treated concrete mixes was suppressed.