PORE REDUCING TECHNOLOGY FOR CONCRETE

摘要

The present invention provides methods and compounds for reducing porosity in concrete using alkoxides. In a preferred embodiment, an Si-containing alkoxide, e.g., Si(OC<SUB>2</SUB>H<SUB>5</SUB>)<SUB>4</SUB> (TEOS) or Si(OCH<SUB>3</SUB>)<SUB>4</SUB>, may be introduced to concrete where it penetrates the pore spaces. The Si-containing alkoxide undergoes hydrolysis and polymerization reactions to form silica gel, which reduces the volume of pore spaces. In addition, hydrous silica formed during the polymerization step may react with calcium hydroxide to form CSH, which may also reduce the volume of pore spaces. The calcium hydroxide may be locally available or it may be provided by introducing a Ca-containing alkoxide solution, which forms calcium hydroxide through a hydrolysis reaction.