The Penetration Process

When Vetrofluid is applied to concrete, it begins a multi-stage process:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Chemical Reaction: Once inside the concrete, the sodium silicate reacts with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), a byproduct of cement hydration present in concrete.
  4. 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:

  1. Crystal Formation: As the sodium silicate reacts with calcium hydroxide, calcium silicate hydrate crystals begin to form within the concrete's pores.
  2. Pore Filling: These crystals grow and interlock, gradually filling the pores and capillaries in the concrete matrix.
  3. 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.
  4. Continued Reaction: The crystallization process continues over time when exposed to moisture, allowing the system to self-heal minor cracks that may develop.

Barrier Effects: Blocking Harmful Substances

The crystallized silicate network creates an effective barrier against several harmful substances while maintaining concrete's breathability:

  • Water Resistance: The crystalline formation blocks liquid water molecules from penetrating the concrete by filling the capillary pores. This prevents water ingress even under pressure (up to 10 atmospheres), making it effective for both positive and negative side waterproofing.
  • Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Blocking: CO₂ is a primary cause of concrete carbonation, a process that reduces concrete's alkalinity and can lead to reinforcement corrosion. The dense crystal structure significantly reduces CO₂ penetration, protecting the concrete from carbonation.
  • Hydrocarbon Resistance: The crystalline barrier also provides resistance against oils, fuels, and other hydrocarbon-based substances that can deteriorate untreated concrete.

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:

Surface Treatments (2-5mm)
  • Limited protection depth
  • Vulnerable to surface damage
  • Requires regular reapplication
  • Can be compromised by surface abrasion
Vetrofluid (up to 40mm)
  • 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