How Vetrofluid Crystallizes Concrete from Within
A deep dive into the science of silicate penetration, pore sealing, and long-term waterproofing.
The Penetration Process
When Vetrofluid is applied to concrete, it begins a multi-stage process:
- Initial Absorption: The liquid Vetrofluid is absorbed into the concrete through capillary action, with the water component carrying the sodium silicate deep into the material.
- Deep Penetration: The proprietary catalyst in Vetrofluid allows it to penetrate up to 40mm into the concrete, significantly deeper than conventional sealers that typically remain near the surface.
- Chemical Reaction: Once inside the concrete, the sodium silicate reacts with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), a byproduct of cement hydration present in concrete.
- Crystallization: This reaction forms calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) crystals that grow within the pores and capillaries of the concrete.
Chemical Reaction:
Na₂SiO₃ + Ca(OH)₂ + H₂O → CaSiO₃·nH₂O + 2NaOH
The resulting calcium silicate hydrate (CaSiO₃·nH₂O) forms insoluble crystals that fill the concrete's pore network.
The Crystallization Mechanism
The crystallization process is what gives Vetrofluid its remarkable protective properties:
- Crystal Formation: As the sodium silicate reacts with calcium hydroxide, calcium silicate hydrate crystals begin to form within the concrete's pores.
- Pore Filling: These crystals grow and interlock, gradually filling the pores and capillaries in the concrete matrix.
- Permanent Barrier: Unlike coatings that sit on the surface, these crystals become an integral part of the concrete structure, creating a permanent barrier that lasts for the lifetime of the concrete.
- Continued Reaction: The crystallization process continues over time when exposed to moisture, allowing the system to self-heal minor cracks that may develop.
Breathability: The Microporous Advantage
Despite its waterproofing properties, Vetrofluid-treated concrete maintains its ability to "breathe." This seemingly contradictory feature is explained by the nature of the crystalline formation:
How Breathability Works:
- The crystalline structure blocks liquid water molecules due to their size and surface tension
- However, water vapor molecules are smaller and can still pass through the microscopic spaces between crystals
- This allows trapped moisture within the concrete to escape as vapor, preventing internal pressure buildup
- Oxygen molecules can also pass through, maintaining the concrete's natural vapor permeability
This breathability is crucial for the long-term health of concrete structures, as it prevents internal moisture accumulation that could lead to freeze-thaw damage or internal pressure buildup.
Penetration Depth: The 40mm Advantage
Vetrofluid's ability to penetrate up to 40mm into concrete provides significant advantages over surface treatments:
- Limited protection depth
- Vulnerable to surface damage
- Requires regular reapplication
- Can be compromised by surface abrasion
- Deep, permanent protection
- Resistant to surface damage
- One-time application
- Becomes integral part of concrete
Scientific Evidence and Performance Data
Laboratory tests and field applications have demonstrated Vetrofluid's effectiveness:
| Property | Test Method | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Water Absorption | EN 1062-3 | <1% (24h) |
| Water Penetration | EN 12390-8 | <10mm (72h, 5 bar) |
| CO₂ Permeability | EN 1062-6 | Very low |