The Protection of Masonry Blocks with Using Hydrophobization Before Load Due to Increased Moisture

Abstract

The Faculty of Civil Engineering (Brno University of Technology) has for several years been developing and researching the properties of modern building materials. One area of research is the development and modification of the properties of masonry elements, particularly masonry blocks that are able to withstand increased moisture loads. These masonry blocks can be used as protection in buildings in flood areas or buildings that may be prone to damage from natural disasters. Increased moisture is one of the most common problems encountered in building structures. Most problems concern moisture in liquid form, which can have significant effects on changing the properties of materials and structures. If the structure of brick blocks is changed by moisture in liquid form due to porosity and water absorption, thereby affecting load, it can reduce the service life of masonry blocks. This paper investigates the use of special silicone products on the surface layer of ceramic masonry elements. The application of these silicone agents forms a protective surface layer on masonry blocks, protecting them via hydrophobisation and the effects of increased humidity. Hydrophobisation reduces water absorption into masonry blocks and eliminates the negative effects of moisture on the properties of masonry blocks. Through hydrophobisation, masonry blocks can be extremely effective for use as preventive protection in case of failure or damage on the part of conventional waterproofing measures.