Because of the extreme porosity of concrete, unprotected concrete can absorb water, sodium chloride (salt), carbon dioxide and acid rain, which in time will affect its integrity.
Salt can be a hazard to concrete in the form of deicing road salts, or coastal sea salt spray. When there is an ingress of salt, chloride ions are able to penetrate deep into the concrete. Eventually they will accumulate around the reinforcing steel and will thus cause the erosion and decay of the steel, since oxygen and moisture are present. In order to prevent degradation related to salt and salt exposure, it is best to use a silane/siloxane blended sealer like the Siloxa-Tek 8500.
Benefits of Siloxa-Tek 8500
- Protection from chloride penetration
- Protection from carbonation
- Protection of reinforcing steel against corrosion
- Resistance to wind-borne moisture
- Protection against freeze-thaw cycles
- Prevention of the ingress of water while remaining breathable
- Resists chemical attack, salt degradation, deicing salts, acid rain and seawater
