Keyword: «polymethylsilsesquioxane»

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.