Protective equipment for sustainable, cost-effective, long-life infrastructure

Silane-based Protectosil® protectants have proven to be highly effective in achieving unprecedented levels of durability and resistance of mineral building materials, such as concrete or natural stone. The application of these agents can reduce maintenance costs and extend maintenance intervals, making them a very valuable tool in the construction industry. Independent studies have shown that impregnation with silanes can extend the life of structures by several decades. 

In the coming years, the Netherlands faces a major challenge in overhauling its civil infrastructure. To ensure that the country remains safe, accessible and livable, extensive replacement and renovation efforts are crucial. In 2021, spending on these renewals amounted to 1.1 billion euros. According to TNO, these costs are expected to double next year to 3.4 billion euros per year over the next two decades. By the end of the century, annual costs are expected to reach 3.7 billion euros. 

Concrete is a widely used building material because of its strength and durability. However, the durability of buildings exposed to water containing chloride is affected because these chloride compounds can cause corrosion when the compounds reach the steel reinforcement. This can lead to damage and even loss of stability. Silane-based protection systems from Evonik can prevent this by hydrophobizing surfaces.

Unprecedented durability

The depth of penetration of the silane is crucial to the lasting effectiveness of hydrofoaming. When properly applied, suitable hydrophobes form a protective layer more than 10 millimeters deep, even in a single application. Under the Protectosil® brand, Evonik markets silane-based protective products that give mineral building materials unprecedented durability and resistance. They are used as hydrophobic and oleophobic agents, as corrosion inhibitors and as surface protection products, such as in anti-graffiti or façade protection applications. 

Extending the life of damaged buildings 

Silane-based protective agents have proven to be highly effective in preventing, stopping or reducing 77% of the causes of damage to reinforced concrete. Independent studies have shown that impregnation with Protectosil® can extend the life of structures by several decades. Longer maintenance cycles and lower maintenance costs are the result. It also reduces the amount of concrete needed for replacement construction and repair, which improves the durability of concrete, which is energy-intensive to produce. 

Overcoming traffic jams 

Sustainable road mobility is only possible with an efficient infrastructure. However, statistics show that many bridges around the world are in urgent need of renovation, and some are even closed due to their deteriorated condition. A reliable solution to this problem is the use of a silane-based formulation, which permanently protects reinforced concrete bridges from water penetration and corrosion. 

Prevention is the key 

Protective measures with products such as Protectosil® are cost-effective, with preventive measures costing only 0.6% of the cost of basic renovation or new construction. This is a small price to pay for decades of additional use, and it can therefore help keep optimal use of roads and bridges.