Early Age Sealing Capacity of Structural Mortar with Integral Crystalline Waterproofing Admixture.

Crystalline admixtures embedded in concrete may react in the presence of water and generate thin crystals able to fill pores, capillaries and micro-cracks. Once the concrete has dried, the crystalline chemicals sit dormant until another dose of water starts the crystallization again. The research aims to analyses the early age self-sealing effect of a crystalline admixture at a dosage rate of 1-3% of the cement mass.

Influence of TiO Nanoparticles on the Resistance of Cementitious Composite Materials to the Action of Bacteria.

The formation of biofilms on cementitious building surfaces can cause visible discoloration and premature deterioration, and it can also represent a potential health threat to building occupants. The use of embedded biofilm-resistant photoactivated TiO nanoparticles at low concentrations in the cementitious composite matrix is an effective method to increase material durability and reduce maintenance costs. Zone of inhibition studies of TiO-infused cementitious samples showed efficacy toward both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.