Multifunctional surfaces of portland cement-based materials developed with functionalized silicon-based nanoparticles

This study evaluated the multifunctional properties that develop during curing on the surfaces of Portland cement-based mortars from using silicon-based nanoparticles (NS) and functionalized nanoparticles (NF). The durability and hydrophobicity were used as indices to determine the performance. Mortar specimens were manufactured with a water to cement (w/c) ratio of 0.65, and different treatments were applied with combinations of 0.1% NS and NF relative to the weight of the water used for curing. In some cases, treatments were performed for 72 h; in others, two layers were applied. The results indicated that the treatments reduced the carbonation depth and the diffusion of Cl- ions. In addition, the treated specimens demonstrated an increase in resistivity due to reduced pore network connectivity; this is evidence of a reduction in permeability and consequently an increase in durability. Multifunctional properties on the surface were demonstrated to be induced by the combination of NS and NF.