Keyword: «hydrophobization»

This study investigates the effect of polymethylsilsesquioxane aerogel on the water absorption of cement composites. The relevance of this research is driven by the need to enhance the durability of concrete structures exposed to aggressive water saturation and cyclic temperature variations. Concrete cube specimens with a 100 mm edge were fabricated using a constant mixed design, with aerogel added at 0%, 0.2%, 0.375%, and 0.475% by cement mass. Water absorption tests were performed in accordance with GOST 12730.3-2020. The results demonstrate that aerogel incorporation proportionally reduces water absorption. At the maximum dosage (0.475%), water absorption decreased from 5.70% to 3.10%, representing an approximate twofold reduction. These findings confirm the potential of superhydrophobic nanoporous aerogels as effective bulk modifiers for developing a water-repellent cement matrix without significantly increasing the structural mass.

Hydrophobization of thermal insulation materials based on basalt (stone) fiber and boards is aimed at reducing water absorption, increasing the durability, thermal protection, and operational characteristics of products. In recent decades, the development and implementation of effective hydrophobizing emulsions have become one of the key challenges in materials science and construction chemistry, as natural and operational factors (moisture, freezing-thawing cycles, and mechanical stress) significantly reduce the energy efficiency and service life of thermal insulation. This article summarizes modern approaches to hydrophobization of basalt/stone slabs and mineral wool products, describes the types of emulsions and their composition, and provides information on the application areas and relevance of these technologies at the current stage.

The article discusses the factors that determine the frost resistance of concrete, as well as modern methods for assessing and improving it. It provides a classification of concrete grades based on their frost resistance (F) depending on the operating conditions. The article describes laboratory testing methods in accordance with GOST 10060-2012, including procedures for saturating samples and performing cyclic freezing and thawing. It also examines the main theories of frost damage in concrete, the role of water-cement ratio, air entrapment, and hydrophobization in shaping the material's structure. Special attention is paid to practical recommendations for selecting the type of concrete for different climatic zones and winter concreting conditions.