Surface Treatments to Minimize Concrete Deterioration. Report 2. Laboratory Evaluation of Surface Treatment Materials

The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of various types of surface treatments used for protecting and repairing concrete subjected to aggressive agents in the environment by laboratory testing and to develop information and guidance on the selection and application of these surface treatments. Emphasis was placed on surface treatment materials that could minimize or prevent damage to concrete due to freezing and thawing. The effectiveness of these surfaces treatments was determined by the ability to seal concrete from water intrusion and to transmit water vapor; the resistance to freezing and thawing and weathering; and the total solids, bond strength to concrete, and ease application. Other types of surface treatments evaluated were coatings to minimize erosion, polymer systems for sealing cracks by topical application, elastomeric coatings for sealing surfaces containing numerous cracks, thin cementitious overlays, shotcrete containing latex admixtures, and a few graffiti-resistant coatings. Keywords: Concrete; Coatings; Sealing compounds; Freezing; Thawing; Waterproofing.