Pore structure modification of cement concretes by impregnation with sulfur-containing compounds

The authors study how the impregnation with sulfur-containing compounds changes the concrete pore structure and how it influences on the water absorption and watertightness. The results of this research indicate that impregnation of cement concrete with water-based solution of polysulphide modifies pore structure of cement concrete in such a way that it decreases total and effective porosity, reduces water absorption and increases watertightness. The proposed impregnation based on mineral helps to protect for a long time the most vulnerable parts of buildings – basements, foundations, as well as places on the facades of buildings exposed to rain, snow and groundwater. Application of the new product in the construction industry can increase the durability of materials, preventing the destruction processes caused by weathering, remove excess moisture in damp basements. The surfaces treated by protective compounds acquire antisoiling properties for a long time, and due to reduced thermal conductivity the cost of heating buildings is decreased. The effectiveness of the actions and the relatively low cost of proposed hydrophobizator makes it possible to spread widely the proposed protection method for building structures

Strength and durability of concrete modified by sulfur-based impregnating compounds

The aim of the research was to determine how sulfur-containing compound impregnation influences on concrete compressive strength and the impact resistance of concrete tiles. The results of these studies indicate that impregnation of vibropressed concrete paving tiles and concrete samples of dif-ferent strength classes with aqueous solutions based on calcium polysulfide leads to a significant increase of compressive strength and impact resistance. These data show that the strength of the products can be controlled by varying duration and frequency of the impregnation and by using pre-vacuum method. Impregnation with a solution of calcium polysulfide density of 1,23 g/cm³ can be recommended to increase strength of concrete products that are exposed to intense hydration and mechanical stress