Transport properties of nano-clay modified hydrophobic concrete

In this work the performance of a traditional concrete modified by the addition of nanoparticles and of a hydrophobic resin were studied. In particular, water capillary suction, water absorption at atmospheric pressure and under vacuum, chloride diffusion, sulphates resistance and carbonation rate tests were carried out. The nanocomposite concrete (hydrophobic and not hydrophobic) shows efficacy in inhibiting the water absorption and CO2 transport thanks to the internal microstructure modification induced by the nanoparticles action which makes more difficult the passage of the substances. Hydrophobic concrete, instead, very effectively avoids the water inlet, but, because of its hydrophobic character, makes the pores of concrete unsatured of water and the CO2 can diffuse faster through the concrete bulk.