The influence of internal hydrophobization using organosilicon admixture on the performance and the durability of concrete

The main purpose of the study was to analyze the influence of internal hydrophobization, conducted using an admixture based on triethoxyoctylsilane, on the properties and durability of concrete. Experimental studies concerned the measurement of compressive strength, capillary water absorption, depth of water penetration under pressure and carbonation resistance of samples subjected to 100 and 150 freeze-thaw cycles. The obtained results indicate that internal hydrophobization is an effective method of protecting cement-based building materials against water, even if the material was subjected to cyclic freezing. For comparison, the tests were also carried out for surface hydrophobized concrete.