Types of impregnation for deep penetration concrete. Concrete impregnation tips Oil resistant concrete impregnation

A significant disadvantage of an untreated concrete floor is a tendency to increased dust formation. Its surface layer does not have high strength and begins to crumble with minimal mechanical stress, changes in humidity and temperature. This leads to the formation of cement dust, which settles on the surfaces of the room, furniture and, worst of all, in the human body. In addition, endless dust formation is the gradual destruction of the concrete floor, reducing its service life.

To strengthen the surface layer of concrete and eliminate dust formation, dust removal methods are used. Their main purpose is not to eliminate already existing dust, but to eliminate the cause that causes erosion processes in concrete.

Two main technologies can be used to harden concrete surfaces: topping (applying dry hardening mixtures to fresh concrete) and impregnation with strengthening compounds.

Both of these methods are effective against cracking, dusting, weathering and efflorescence on the concrete surface.

Topping - dedusting with dry mixtures

The topping technology is very similar to the “ironization” known to every builder - rubbing dry cement into concrete that has not yet hardened. The essence of topping is almost the same, only a multi-component hardening mixture is used instead of cement. In addition to high-quality Portland cement, it contains fine-grained fillers and chemical additives that make the surface layer of concrete less porous and more durable.

Fine-grained fillers that are part of topping mixtures can paint the floor surface in different colors: gray, green, yellow, blue, red, brown, black.

Types of mixtures for topping

Depending on the nature of the fillers, topping mixtures are grouped into several groups:

• quartz;
• corundum;
• metallized.

Quartz hardeners are the most popular and inexpensive. The filler in these compositions is quartz sand, specially purified and, if necessary, a decorative effect, colored with colored pigments.

The use of quartz topping can increase the strength of the concrete surface by 1.5 times. This is sufficient for the subsequent long-term operation of concrete floors experiencing an average load.

Quartz topping is considered universal in most cases. It is widely used in workshops, warehouses, shopping centers, educational institutions, hotel lobbies, etc. In residential construction, quartz topping is used in rooms with high humidity or increased load on the floors. For example, in gyms, baths, swimming pools, etc.

Corundum hardeners are more effective, capable of increasing the resistance of the floor to mechanical stress by 1.6-1.8 times, and to abrasion - up to 2 times. In their composition, high-strength corundum chips (filler) are used, which are resistant to abrasion and abrasive influences. It gives the concrete surface a matte elegant sheen.

Corundum topping is used for concrete surfaces subjected to heavy loads. This happens in rooms with massive equipment installed, where vehicles move or there is a large crowd of people. For example, in warehouses, gas stations, car parks, gyms or social facilities.

Metallized hardeners - topping with metal shavings. These mixtures are the strongest, they increase the strength of the concrete surface by 2 times.

Metal topping has found its application in rooms where floors are subject to strong mechanical or vibration loads, where massive traffic is possible or heavy equipment is installed. For example, in production shops, warehouses. In residential and social premises, metal topping is not used, due to possible corrosion processes on the hardened concrete surface.

Topping technology: a scheme for applying a hardening mixture

Topping is a rather complicated technology that requires experience and the use of special equipment. At the slightest mistake, the following deformations can be observed: cracking, peeling of the topping crust, erasing of the top layer. Therefore, it is better to entrust this work to professionals.

Topping can only be used on a high-quality reinforced slab filled with high-quality concrete (not lower than M300). The hardener is applied to fresh, not hardened, but already set concrete. Usually, work begins 5-8 hours after laying. At this time, it is already possible to walk on the floor, but prints remain on it. Their depth should be no more than 3-5 mm.

Creating a reinforced concrete layer using topping:

1. A hardener is scattered over the surface of the concrete - approximately 65% ​​of the total volume. The distribution is carried out manually or using a loose trolley.
2. When the mixture is saturated with moisture and darkens, the concrete surface is smoothed out with single-rotor or twin-rotor trowels (“helicopters”). The disks of the machines rub the mixture into the structure of the concrete until it is completely absorbed.
3. Without a technological break, the rest of the topping (35%) is applied to the surface. This must be done immediately so that there is still moisture on the concrete surface.
4. Rub the surface again.
5. After 2 hours, the concrete surface is ground with the same trowels, installing grinding blades instead of trowels. After that, the surface of the concrete floor acquires a soft matte sheen.
6. A special impregnation (curing) is applied to the surface.
7. To prevent the concrete surface from starting to crack during the drying process, it is covered with plastic wrap.
8. After 1-2 days, when the concrete has completely hardened, expansion (shrinkage) seams are cut out on its surface with a seam cutter or a grinder (with a diamond disk). Usually they are cut into squares 6x6 m, 1/3 of the thickness of the plate, 10-15 mm wide.
9. After 14-28 days, the seams are filled with polyurethane sealant.

Here's what it looks like in pictures:

You can also watch the video, which tells the main technological points:

Impregnations - compositions for rapid dedusting

Preparing the surface for impregnation

To begin with, it should be understood that the application of any impregnation requires preliminary preparation of the concrete base. Otherwise, the composition will not be able to penetrate to the required depth into the concrete structure.

Preparing a concrete floor is not difficult, but painstaking and time consuming. It consists of several consecutive operations:

1. Remove all floor coverings from concrete floors. If these were materials that were tightly attached to the floor (linoleum, carpet, relin, laminate), then you can proceed to the next step of preparation immediately after removing them. After dismantling the coating that is not directly adjacent to the concrete (plank floor, parquet), you will need to wait about a day until the raised dust settles. If the concrete has just been laid, then only acrylic impregnations are allowed to be applied to it. Other types of impregnations require curing of the concrete coating for at least 14 days. Colored floors will require even more time - 28 days. After this time, the next stage of preparation begins.
2. Thoroughly vacuum the entire surface twice. It is advisable to use not an ordinary vacuum cleaner, but a special building one - more powerful.
3. The floor is washed with ordinary water using a rag or a wringer mop. To begin with, the entire surface is washed, removing particles of cement and dust. Then, after drying, the floor is wiped again.
4. Perform a final dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner. The washed and dried base is carefully vacuumed twice.

Thus, before applying the impregnation, the concrete surface needs high-quality cleaning. If necessary, add to the technological process.

What are the impregnations?

Impregnations for dedusting are divided into inorganic and organic. Inorganic means one type of impregnation - based on fluorosilicates (fluates). Organic compounds are more diverse. This group includes acrylic, polyurethane and epoxy impregnations.

Inorganic impregnations (fluates) enter into a chemical reaction with the components of concrete, namely with lime (which is perceived as dust) and turn it into durable calcium fluoride. That is, fluates change the chemical formula of the concrete surface, converting soluble compounds into insoluble ones. The impregnated layer of concrete becomes more durable and water resistant.

Organic impregnations work differently. They fill micropores and cracks in concrete or form a strong film on the surface. The concrete structure becomes more dense and durable, the surface becomes waterproof.

Fluating concrete

Impregnation with fluates (fluating) is used if the concrete surface will be painted in the future. Fluates act on soluble lime compounds in concrete and convert them into insoluble, inert compounds of increased strength. At the same time, the fluates do not seal the surface, it remains vapor-permeable, the concrete continues to “breathe”.

Changes in the surface layer of concrete during treatment with fluates:

• strength increases;
• dust formation is reduced;
• abrasion is reduced;
• increases resistance to aggressive chemicals;
• absorbency decreases.
• frost resistance increases.

It is worth emphasizing that fluation significantly reduces dust formation, but does not eliminate it completely. In order to remove dust from the surface as much as possible, it is recommended to additionally cover the fluated layer with polymer impregnations.

Concrete fluting technology:

The fluating composition is diluted with water, according to the instructions. You need to calculate in advance the amount of the finished solution that will be needed for the work. On average, this is 150-200 ml per 1 m 2 of surface. The resulting solution is poured onto the floor and evenly distributed over the surface with brushes, rubber squeegees, rubber scrapers. Fluate is rubbed until the concrete surface is completely saturated.

If the work is carried out in dry and hot conditions, the fluated surface is covered with a film. This is done so that the composition does not dry out too quickly, otherwise its positive properties will be reduced. On average, fluates on the surface dry for 1.5-2 hours. A day later, a second layer of fluate is applied.

After the second layer has dried, that is, after another day, you can begin to operate the base. But laying tiles or other finishes is allowed only after 7 days.

Acrylic impregnations

Acrylic impregnations are aqueous, deeply penetrating compounds that form a film on the concrete surface. This prevents the appearance of efflorescence, reduces water absorption, and provides reliable dust removal.

Acrylic impregnations are considered the weakest. They can only be used if the concrete floors will be subjected to light loads.

Properties of acrylic impregnations:

• give additional strength to the concrete floor;
• dedust;
• increase the chemical resistance of concrete;
• reduce water absorption;
• make surface maintenance easier.

The scheme for applying acrylic impregnations on a concrete base is very simple. First, the impregnation is applied to the surface with a roller, brush or spray gun. After 30-60 minutes, apply a second layer and wait for drying. At room temperature, the complete drying of the impregnation lasts 3-5 hours.

Polyurethane impregnations

The action of polyurethane impregnations is based on the ability of its particles to penetrate deeply into the concrete structure, block capillaries and fill microcracks. When hardening, the polyurethane mixture remains in the pores of concrete, takes their shape without changing its volume.

Polyurethane impregnation is a one-component composition that is sold ready for use. Its great advantage lies in the possibility of application at sub-zero temperatures (down to -30°C).

After treatment with polyurethane impregnation, the top layer of concrete becomes polymer concrete and acquires the following characteristics:

• absolute dedusting;
• wear resistance - increases up to 10 times;
• tightness of the upper layer;
• impact resistance - increases by 2 times;
• rough, non-slippery surface;
• high decorativeness (effect of varnished or "wet" concrete);
• ease of cleaning.

The method of processing concrete with polyurethane impregnation:

1. The impregnation is applied with a polyamide roller, densely wetting the surface. Consumption is 150-250 g/m 2 .
2. After the impregnation has dried, which lasts 3-6 hours, another 1-2 layers are applied (with drying after each layer!).
3. The finished polymer concrete layer should look like a “wet” floor. Such a decorative effect means complete saturation with the solution.

Epoxy impregnations

Epoxy impregnations are polymers, just like polyurethane compounds. Therefore, their principle of operation is the same. Unlike polyurethane compounds, epoxy impregnations can only be used at positive temperatures.

Epoxy impregnation - two-component, consisting of epoxy resin and hardener. These components are shipped in separate containers. You need to mix them only before starting work.

After impregnation with epoxy, the concrete base becomes:

• solid and durable;
• dust-free;
• frost-resistant;
• resistant to abrasion;
• resistant to corrosion and chemicals;
• decorative (with a glossy sheen);
• easy to clean.

Epoxy coating technology:

1. Mix the components of epoxy impregnation - hardener and resin. They are poured into one container and mixed for 5 minutes using a low-speed drill.
2. The impregnation is applied to the concrete surface with a brush, roller or sprayer. Consumption - 150-200 g/m 2 .
3. After 15 minutes, apply a second layer of impregnation and wait for drying.

Complete drying of the impregnation occurs after 4-6 hours. During this period, the treated surface should be protected from exposure to water, otherwise the epoxy layer may become whitish and sticky. It may also interfere with curing. In these cases, it is recommended to remove the epoxy layer and replace it with a new one.

Safety first

The substances that make up the impregnations are quite aggressive. Therefore, when working with them, it is necessary to use rubber gloves, safety shoes and clothing. For dilution of impregnations use plastic containers.

When working with mixtures for topping, it is also required to observe safety measures and use respirators for respiratory protection.

Features of the structure of concrete inevitably cause erosion on its upper layer, primarily in places where it is constantly subjected to increased mechanical stress. This leads to gradual destruction, the appearance of cement dust on the surface. To slow down this process, special hardeners are used. They process the floors immediately after pouring or, if necessary, the restoration of old ones.

• with high humidity;
• often exposed to chemically aggressive substances - acids, salts, oils;
• with increased air requirements, where it is important to exclude the presence of cement dust, for example, food production;
• public buildings with a constant large flow of people;
• industrial shops;
• warehouses;
• garages, car parks.

Benefits of using hardeners

Benefits of using reinforcers:

• increased wear resistance;
• increase in the level of moisture resistance;
• dust protection;
• cost reduction due to the possibility of using a mixture of a lower grade of strength;
• improving the appearance, giving unusual decorative properties;
• simplification of care of a surface of a floor.

Kinds

Two technologies are used to increase the strength of concrete:

• Chemical hardening. Impregnation with liquid formulations.
• Mechanical. Grouting a freshly poured surface with a dry reinforcing agent - topping.

1. Impregnation.

Reaction with some liquids creates additional crystalline bonds in the structure of the surface layer, which significantly increases strength. Liquid hardeners and hardeners are called sealers. They may be of mineral or organic origin. The advantage of chemicals is the possibility of restoring old and in-service coatings.

Impregnation is evenly applied to the plane. It penetrates into pores and microcracks to a depth of 5 mm, neutralizes chemically active carbonate and lime substances, forming a gel that fills voids. After half an hour, moisten with water, this improves penetration. When the top layer of the floor is completely saturated, the excess is removed with a rag. The plane becomes monolithic, erosion and dusting are prevented, moisture impermeability is significantly increased.

List of popular sealers:

• Protexil. Colorless liquid polymer on organic solvents. In addition to the main purpose, it effectively removes dust from the plane. Consumption - 0.2-0.35 l / m2.
• Kalmatron. It has a composition similar to Protexil. The floor becomes 40% stronger. During operation, the floor with this hardener is self-polishing. Consumption - 0.25-0.35 l / m2.
• Interhard. It is a liquid inorganic polymer resin based on lithium with the addition of surfactants. It increases wear resistance by 2-4 times, gives frost resistance. The agent does not form a film (the floor "breathes"), prevents the development of fungus and mold, prevents the appearance of efflorescence, increases resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Consumption - 0.15-0.35 l / m2.

2. Overview of toppings.

The composition includes: Portland cement, fine filler, chemical additives. Hardened with a dry hardener, the top layer of the floor becomes a single whole, homogeneous, which eliminates the delamination of the coating.

Consumption depends on the degree of load that the room will carry:

• light and medium - from 3 to 5 kg / m2;
• medium and high - from 5 to 8.

For decorative toppings consumption - not less than 7 kg/m2.

Varieties of dry trowels:

• Quartz. Surface strength is increased by one and a half times. Using different shades creates an unusual look. The filler is quartz sand, sometimes with.
• Corundum. They give an increase in strength almost twice. Corundum chips are added to their composition. It is a mineral material with high abrasion resistance. The planes acquire a matte sheen.
• Metallized. The most effective, they double the resistance to abrasion, are intended for industrial construction, such hardeners are not used in housing. Metal shavings are introduced into them as a filler. At high humidity in the room, the surfaces become covered with traces of corrosion. Consumption - up to 12 kg / m2.

A concrete floor with topping has a more attractive appearance. To perform the work requires special equipment. A trowel costs from 35,000, you can buy a disc for it at a price of 2,000 rubles.

List of popular brands:

1. KLEBEKRAFT Corundum (CT-S series). Under this brand, a topping of a natural shade and color is produced. Available colors: blue, yellow, red, beige, light gray, green. The filler is corundum or quartz.

2. TopHard Corundum. Colored, creating a uniform shade. Increases the strength of concrete up to grade M800 (approximately 2.5-3 times), wear resistance - 4.5 times.

3. Mastertop 100. Quartz topping for medium abrasion indoor and outdoor floors. Not suitable for surfaces exposed to acids, salts, other aggressive substances, as well as with high requirements for decorative and hygienic.

4. Mastertop 450. Corundum dry hardener for high abrasion and moderate impact floors, indoors and outdoors. Planes are 2-2.5 times stronger than those coated with quartz type. The restrictions are the same as for the previous option.

The technology of concrete hardening with the help of toppings

• Processing makes sense only if all building codes are strictly observed when pouring the screed. A prerequisite is reinforcement and compaction, including the use of vibrators, vibrating rails.
• The grade must be at least M350, in rooms with a high abrasion load - at least M400.
• The minimum thickness of the screed is 120 mm, when pouring over the old base - from 70 mm.
• Maximum difference in height - no more than 50 mm.
• It is recommended to apply the topping at a temperature from +10 to +25°C, air humidity from 60%, absence of drafts. It is also necessary to exclude the ingress of dust on the surface. At higher temperatures and lower humidity, the mortar dries too quickly, making grouting impossible.
• You can determine the readiness of fresh concrete by stepping on it. If the print from the shoe is not deeper than 5 mm, then it is suitable for the beginning of the grouting.
• During work, use personal protective equipment: gloves, goggles.

Procedure:

1. Remove excess moisture from concrete. To do this, drag a rubber hose.

2. Spread 2/3 of the topping evenly over the surface by hand (but not with a shovel) or with a cart.

3. After the mixture begins to absorb moisture, start rubbing it. To do this, use a "helicopter" with disks or "floating blades". Areas inaccessible for processing by the machine, rub manually with a trowel. In the process of doing the work, the topping is impregnated with cement milk.

4. Distribute the remainder of the mixture immediately. Be sure to do this immediately so that the new layer absorbs all the moisture. It is impregnated with cement milk and rubbed again.

5. Finishing is done after setting. Footprints should be no more than 1mm deep.

6. Cover the entire surface with water-retaining varnish.

7. After about 2 days, chop. After the concrete has completely cured, they are filled with sealant.

8. Cover the floor after grouting for a week with a film. This will prevent staining, dirt or mechanical damage.

Common Mistakes

• It makes no sense to strengthen concrete with plasticizer additives or salt mixtures, there will be no effect.
• Violation of screed reinforcement technology.
• Grouting an already solidified solution. Additional moisture only leads to a decrease in strength.
• The use of a product that is not suitable in terms of characteristics, due to the low price, reducing consumption.
• Use of topping from damaged packaging.
• Lack of connection (mortgage connections) between different sections of the pour. This will lead to deformation of the screed during operation. Hardening won't work either.
• No expansion joints.

Price

Before buying a hardener, you first need to decide on the processing technology - impregnation or grouting. The cost will depend on the type - dry or liquid. Sealers are usually sold in 10 liter canisters.

Dry hardeners can be purchased in moisture-resistant bags of 25-30 kg.

Topping grout will require special equipment that is too expensive to purchase for a one-time use, but dry products allow you to give the concrete floor an extra visual appeal, an unusual look.

At the beginning of the development of technology for casting reinforced concrete structures, builders measured the porosity of the material. Today, the situation has changed dramatically - modern impregnating compositions have appeared that can improve the technical and operational properties of concrete products.

In the article we will tell you what concrete impregnations are, what their purpose is, how to choose and apply the material on the base correctly.

The need to treat the concrete surface with hardening impregnation

Concrete impregnation is a liquid hardener, which contains special adhesives that significantly strengthen the top layer of the surface. The concrete surface itself has a porous, loose surface. The presence of micropores leads to two main disadvantages of precast concrete:

• low hydrophobicity - moisture seeps through the pores;
• insufficient density of the material, which leads to a decrease in the strength of the finished structure.

Modern concrete processing technologies make it possible to turn a porous concrete surface into a waterproof stone. This is especially true when erecting monolithic walls, concrete foundations and other load-bearing structures that are in contact with moisture.

So, concrete impregnation performs the following tasks:

• protection of the surface of the product from negative environmental factors and chemicals;
• increasing the strength characteristics of concrete;
• dust removal of concrete structures;
• increased wear resistance of screeds and plates;
• strengthening of aged products and structures;
• improving the appearance of the concrete floor;
• increasing the service life of reinforced concrete structures.

Scope of impregnation for concrete

Impregnation for concrete floors, foundations, walls and other structural elements is used in various industries and arrangements:

• exhibition and trade halls;
• storage facilities;
• car services, car washes and parking lots;
• open concrete platforms;
• livestock farms;
• production shops;
• residential and administrative buildings.

Depending on the type of structure being processed and the desired result, the optimal type of primer composition is selected.

Classification of concrete impregnations by chemical composition: organic and inorganic modifiers

According to the composition of impregnation for concrete, they are divided into two types of compositions:

• organic mixtures;
• inorganic modifiers.

organic impregnation- liquid compositions produced on the basis of polyurethane, epoxy resins and acrylic. Primers of this type have the following principle of operation: the binder fills the pores of the concrete and gives the surface the ability to repel water and resist aggressive environments. In addition, such impregnations provide dedusting of concrete and make the structure more durable.

Important! Polyurethane impregnation for concrete is considered universal and simultaneously copes with all the tasks assigned to the primer. Compositions based on other substances - highly specialized

Inorganic modifiers(silicate impregnations) have a different principle of action. The material does not fill the micropores of concrete, but reacts with external molecular compounds, which are amenable to dissolution and become inert to other reactions. Concrete acquires a number of additional qualities: water resistance, strength and dust removal.

Varieties of impregnations by functional purpose

Strengthening impregnation for concrete

In most cases, hardening impregnations are made on the basis of inorganic compounds - silicate primers. A protective layer is not formed on the concrete surface, since the impregnation penetrates deep into and changes the structure of the material. Due to this property, the primer does not peel off and provides high wear resistance of the product with its complete dust removal. A hardening primer is applied to ceilings, walls, supports, floors and other structural elements.

Deep impregnation of concrete increases the strength of the surface layer by two to three times

Traditional potash and sodium deep penetration impregnations have been replaced by new hardeners based on lithium silicates. Concrete treated with a lithium primer is resistant to moisture and mechanical abrasion, and is not subject to dust formation.

Important! When using impregnations based on lithium, the possibility of efflorescence on concrete is excluded. One and a half to two hours after surface treatment, the structure can be operated

Water-repellent impregnation for concrete

The action of water-repellent impregnations is based on their penetration into cracks and pores of concrete. This treatment protects the surface of the structure from the penetration of moisture deep into the material and from the impact of a number of negative factors:

• microorganisms, mold and fungi;
• UV rays;
• the appearance of cracks and efflorescence;
• salt/acid precipitation.

Water-repellent impregnation for concrete for outdoor use increases frost resistance and improves the thermal insulation properties of reinforced concrete structures

Hydrophobic impregnation protects the structure from the inside, which is especially important when repairing monolithic walls and basements. However, even such treatment does not protect the foundation from the penetration of groundwater. This problem can be solved by applying a set of measures for waterproofing concrete structures.

Mixtures of this class are represented by a wide range in the construction market. The most effective and expensive are two-component compositions intended for the construction of hydraulic structures, such as swimming pools.

Impregnation for dust removal of a surface

Impregnation for concrete from dust is used in the arrangement of warehouse / industrial premises, exhibition / trading floors, garages, corridors, stairs, etc. Dedusting concrete floors, ceilings or walls is often carried out before surface treatment with polymer coatings, plaster or paintwork.

Action of anti-dust modifiers:

• elimination of dust formation;
• protection of the concrete surface from destruction, exposure to alkalis, acids and oils;
• increase in wear resistance and extension of the operational life of the structure;
• the treated surface does not require special care.

Coloring compounds for concrete

For staining concrete, you can use ordinary paint or a special color impregnation. The surface painted with paintwork materials is less durable and cracks and peels under constant through/through loads.

Colored impregnations penetrate concrete to a depth of up to 3 mm, due to which the coating does not lose color for a long time, regardless of the intensity of exposure to different loads.

Important! The concrete surface coated with a coloring composition must be additionally treated with a water-repellent protective impregnation.

Overview of concrete impregnations from different manufacturers

We will describe several concrete impregnations that are popular and have gained a good reputation among builders.

Hardening primer for concrete floors Tread possesses high resistance to influence of chemical reagents, strengthens a concrete surface and removes dust from it. Additional action:

• provides "breathing" properties of reinforced concrete pavement;
• improving the bond between new and old concrete.

Impregnation Protector is successfully used for arranging floors for various purposes: concrete roads, runways, footpaths, paving slabs, etc. The strengthening composition is produced in buckets of 20 liters, the price for 1 liter is about 180 rubles.

Primer XTREME HARD- inorganic waterproofing impregnation for concrete. The concentrate consists of silica dust, which penetrates deep into the material and interacts with the cement components of the concrete. As a result of the reactions, a crystallization mass and partitions between the pores are formed.

Important! XTREME HARD is a concentrated impregnation that must be diluted with water in a ratio of 1:4 before use.

Retroplate- hardening impregnation for concrete (price per 1 liter - about 400 rubles). The modifier is used for hardening and dust removal of low-grade concrete (less than 300), old and new mosaic concrete. When working with Retroplate impregnation, several nuances must be taken into account:

• the composition is applied at a temperature not lower than +5 °;
• impregnation must not be applied to uncured concrete (at least 14 days must elapse after laying).

Protexil- impregnation for concrete, specially designed for the treatment of floors in production facilities. The modifier protects concrete slabs from high mechanical/transport loads and aggressive environments.

Technical and operational characteristics of Proteksil impregnation:

• operating temperature range from -40°С to +80°С;
• material consumption - about 0.3 l per m2;
• drying time - up to 6 hours at a temperature of +20°C;
• warranty period of storage - 6 months;
• penetration depth - 5-10 mm;
• the cost of impregnation is 170-190 rubles / liter.

Monolith 20-M- universal impregnation for concrete. You can buy a modifier canister for 10 liters at a price of 1300 rubles. Monolith 20-M is a water-based composition, environmentally friendly and non-flammable. Impregnation acts on the concrete coating as follows:

• reduces the formation of shrinkage cracks / warping of concrete;
• increase in water resistance of concrete by three grades;
• increase in wear resistance and hardness by 30%;
• impregnation penetrates 20-30 cm deep into the concrete, while maintaining the ability of the coating to "breathe";
• removes dust from concrete;
• gives resistance to influence of oil products, fats and organic acids;
• improves adhesion of paints and epoxy coatings;
• increases the durability of paints applied to treated concrete.

Consumption of impregnation Monolith 20-M - 1 liter per 3-5 m2 (depending on the condition and porosity of concrete).

1. Silicate impregnating compounds (chemical strengthening of concrete) are suitable in the following cases:
   • dedusting at minimal cost;
   • the floor will be subject to hard use (high temperature effects, dragging heavy objects);
   • the concrete surface is rough and has significant irregularities.
2. Epoxy (polymer) impregnations are best used in cases of:
   • intensive impact on the coating of chemicals;
   • high demands are placed on the aesthetic appearance of the concrete pavement;
   • dedusting of the mosaic floor.

Important! Silicate modifiers are not effective on mosaic concrete pavements.

General requirements for waterproofing and hardening with impregnating compounds

1. The concrete base must be dry. Water in the pores is not allowed.
2. The optimum air temperature for impregnation application is +20-25°C, air humidity is not more than 90%.
3. The temperature of the concrete surface must be at least +10°C (some impregnations are effective even at lower temperatures).
4. For work it is necessary to use rollers or brushes resistant to solvents.
5. Before applying water-repellent compositions, it is desirable to rub the concrete floor with fine quartz sand. This will give the surface anti-slip properties.
6. Visible defects in the concrete surface must be removed - chips and cracks should be sanded.
7. When working, it is necessary to observe safety precautions and use personal protective equipment (gas masks, rubber-soled shoes, cotton clothing and gloves).

Impregnation technology: stages of work

Consider step by step how to strengthen concrete yourself:

Before complete drying of the impregnation should take at least 12-14 hours.

Video: do-it-yourself concrete impregnation with a spatula

Video: dedusting concrete floors, grinding and impregnating.

The reasons why the screed will turn out to be weak are different:

• Not observing the proportions of water and cement.
• Old cement (with lumps).
• Increased clay content in sand.
• Incorrect preparation and care after laying when conditions of rapid dehydration occur.

But if this happened, then something needs to be done about it - because with further finishing, difficulties are possible.

You can't leave it unchanged either. Dust is constantly formed on such a floor. The weak layer is easily destroyed by feet.

First way. Strengthening with a primer.

The first thing most come to is to strengthen with a primer. The option is real, affordable and on everyone's lips. But rarely gives the result:

A short commentary on the video.

Judging by the test with a nail, the screed is quite suitable for tiling indoors. There are examples of a more deplorable state of the base, which they tried to strengthen with a primer:

Why did the tile bounce off the screed?

They tried to strengthen the loose screed with a primer. But the primer, the primer is different. Judging by the color and the resulting film, the primer-concentrate was used in shock proportion. Or primed several times, with the complete drying of each layer (as written on the canister). This gave a film on the surface. A tile with glue was fixed behind it. But under the film remained the same weak layer. On it, the tile came off.

Alternatively, you need a deep penetration primer and pour it in buckets at a time. To fix a weak layer to a greater depth. A deep penetration primer (according to manufacturers) has smaller particles and therefore can penetrate deeper without creating a film on the surface.

Strengthening the cement screed with silicates (liquid glass).

The idea to use liquid glass to repair weak surfaces did not appear out of nowhere. Liquid glass in construction for a long time:

• Additives in concrete and mortars to accelerate setting (1-15% by weight of cement).
• Production of refractory paints, putties and putties with the addition of fillers (talc, marble dust, fine sand).
• Waterproofing of concrete and wooden structures.
• Fight fungus and mold.
• In metallurgy, the arch of furnaces is laid out from fireclay bricks on a binder of sodium silicate.

There are three main types (depending on the composition) of liquid glass: potassium, sodium and lithium. They have different properties, which gives different benefits and different prices.

More common is sodium. They are trying to strengthen the screeds in garages and basements:

You can experiment with this method. It is useful to have at least some other people's experience.

Below are collected the most interesting details of the use of liquid glass. It is difficult to call it qualitative material for conclusions. But still:

It would be possible to call all this fuss with liquid glass a collective farm and forget it, if it were not for such a detail as recommendations for strengthening loose screeds with silicates from many mixture manufacturers. One of them from “MAPEY”:

Important points in the video:

• Viscosity impregnation is more like a primer than liquid glass in jars, which they try to strengthen floors in garages.
• Impregnation must be applied continuously, preventing the top layer from forming a crust.
• Consumption can be significant, and 3-4 liters per meter.

It is clear that the strengthening primer "Prosfas" does not consist of silicate alone. Therefore, its price differs from the price of liquid glass. If we compare the cost of strengthening a loose screed with MAPEY silicate and ordinary liquid glass, taking into account its consumption and the similar consumption of liquid glass, then the discrepancy will be significant:

Prosfas and liquid glass.

But Mapei is not the only company that prepares impregnations for concrete and screeds.

An entire industry has been created on this issue. A simple chemical reaction (Ca(OH)2 is converted to C-S-H) between silicate in impregnation and calcium hydroxide in concrete has built millions of businesses. The composition of the impregnations is not disclosed, except for the name of one of the silicates, on the basis of which it was created.

Like different types of liquid glass, various strengthening impregnations based on potassium, sodium, magnesium and lithium have been created. An important difference between them is the size of the molecule. It depends on how deeply the silicate can soak the screed:

Impregnation based on sodium silicates.

Sodium impregnations.

Here are selected examples of sodium impregnations. That's not all. New ones may appear, cheaper and more effective. Some reduce production and leave the market:

1. Ashford Formula– Brand Ashford Formula. Manufacturer Curecrete Chemical Co (USA). The country of manufacture may be different.
2. Lithurin.
3. Diamond Hard(Diamond Hard). Product of the American chemical concern "EUCLID CHEMICAL".
4. Liquid Hard from W.R. Meadows (USA). The manufacturer may be the Czech Republic.

All impregnations are similar in application method:

Apply so that the entire surface remains wet for 30-60 minutes. Without puddles and drying out in some areas. This is achieved with a soft whisk, redistributing the liquid over the screed. The excess is moved to neighboring areas and removed with a water vacuum cleaner.

Some impregnations are diluted with water (Lithurin I). Some have features - Ashford Formula is not effective on concrete grades below M 300 and on cement-sand screeds:

Strengthening impregnations based on lithium.

According to the American Concrete Institute (ACI Concrete Institute), lithium-based impregnations have a number of advantages:

• Increases the strength of concrete by more than 45% (sodium - 37%).
• Compacts concrete and completes the chemical reaction within 7-14 days (operation after 2 hours). Sodium has 6-12 months.
• There is no need to rinse it with water.
• Penetrates 1-5 mm, forming a chemical reaction with the top layer.

Lithium-based impregnations.

ULTRALIT HARD (1)

If you believe the prices and consumption (for 20 squares - 1 one liter), then the impregnation of one square of a concrete surface costs $ 0.05. The country of origin is the Czech Republic (technology, most likely, the USA).

The production of three varieties of Ultralit Hard Standard, Ultralit Hard Premium, Ultralit Hard Extra has been launched.

Mapecrete LI Hardener (2)

Lithium-based liquid cleaner for new and old concrete floors from MAPEI.

$ 5.8 - impregnation of one square meter, at a consumption of 0.4 kg / m2 (the real price can only be found at the time of purchase).

"Concria Super Hard" and "Concria Hard" (5)

Country of origin USA. Based on the consumption of 1 liter per 10-20m2, we get the cost per square meter: $ 1.2-2.2. C2 Hard can be used on floors that have already been treated with other silicate impregnations and whose surface has begun to dust and flake.

In addition to these two impregnations for strengthening, the release of others has been launched, for coloring, glossing ....

SPEKTRIN LITHIUM(4) - made in Sweden / Ukraine. Lithium impregnation for concrete and stone (marble). Penetration depth - about 7 mm. Strength increase up to 16%. Reducing water absorption by 3.3 times. The impregnation can be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Costs (impregnation cost) per 1 square meter -1.5 $. Used for indoor and outdoor work on durable and dense concrete (M 300 and above):

The first impregnations appeared on the American market about 50 years ago. The search for new compositions does not stop. The competition is growing. Without experience, it is difficult to understand the features of each and the veracity of the declared properties. The indication in some of those maps of strengthening impregnations is alarming: "Do not apply on dusty, crumbling and fragile bases." Marketing wars lead to even more confusion:

A good warning was placed before purchasing one of the impregnations:

As a way out - you need a test area 1.5m x 1.5m. If there are different surfaces, then for each type of surface there is a separate site. After doing everything according to the instructions, let it dry for 3-7 days. Then draw a conclusion on consumption, costs, obtained and expected surface strength.

Strengthening impregnation for concrete widely used to reinforce weak, low-quality floor screeds, as well as to increase the strength and protection of concrete floors and concrete structures.

A durable, chemically resistant, and deep penetrating concrete impregnation will significantly increase the life of concrete floors and reduce maintenance costs.

We produce and offer just such impregnations for concrete hardening.
You can get acquainted with the descriptions, find out prices and technologies on the page: Impregnation for concrete

Concrete is the main building material for industrial floors. It is used in various operating conditions, has such qualities as: availability and simplicity of technology, environmental friendliness, reliability, relatively low cost. During operation, under the influence of various adverse loads, concrete is destroyed. Floors made of concrete or sand-cement mortars are also subject to various types of corrosion, (sulphate, chloride) Carbon dioxide corrosion processes loosen the upper layers of concrete and sand-cement structures, lime breaks down into microcalcite dust, floors are covered with a network of cracks, which causes rapid destruction and dusting of concrete floors. Therefore, the strengthening of concrete and its protection are the main tasks in the construction of concrete floors.

One way to harden concrete is to grout fresh concrete using special machines. This method allows you to level the surface of the concrete, remove pores, sinks and compact concrete floors. However, a clear disadvantage of such coatings is their low strength characteristics: instability to aggressive solutions, surface abrasion, and, as a result, dusting. This method is not recommended for areas with intensive use.

An economical and simple solution for hardening a concrete floor is a hardening impregnation for concrete. Impregnation compounds are widely used as concrete primers. Impregnation for hardening concrete has a high penetrating ability, significantly increases the resistance to abrasion, provides sealing, sealing. Strengthening impregnations for concrete are used as a protective coating. Elakor polyurethane one-component impregnations make it possible to strengthen concrete even at sub-zero temperatures. Fluating impregnation for concrete does not contain organic compounds.

Fluting is a surface treatment process that converts soluble compounds on the concrete surface into chemically stable insoluble compounds. This method compacts the structure of the concrete, but does not completely seal it. At the same time, the surface remains vapor-permeable, has a slight dusting, and does not form a film subject to abrasion. Strengthening of concrete occurs to a depth of 5 mm. Hardening of industrial floors with fluorosilicates is used indoors and outdoors.

Due to the excellent physical and mechanical characteristics, the most popular hardening impregnations for concrete based on polyurethane. This method allows to achieve hardening of concrete of low grade strength, M100 or less. The top layer of concrete is saturated with polyurethane, converted into concrete polymer. Concrete floors after hardening become dust-free, impact-resistant, impervious to liquids, abrasion is significantly reduced.

Before impregnation of concrete, preparation of the base is mandatory. Remove the upper loose layer, clean from dirt, oils, use a grinder to clean from cement laitance, then dedust the surface. This is necessary to open the pores and ensure the penetration of the hardening impregnation for concrete deep into. The depth of impregnation can be adjusted over a wide range from 2mm - 6mm or more. This increases the grade strength of concrete several times. Hardening impregnation for concrete floors is applied with rollers, solvent-resistant brushes or airless spray. Layer-by-layer drying is 4-6 hours.

Hardening impregnations for concrete floors significantly improve the performance of concrete, can be used to harden old and new concrete floors. Impregnations do not change the color of the surface, do not form a slippery film. Hardening impregnation for concrete is applied once for the entire service life of concrete and ensures long-term operation of concrete floors.