Near-Surface Qualities of Decorative Concrete

摘要

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of post-finishing treatments on water absorption and abrasion resistance of decorative concrete surfaces. Water absorption was measured using RILEM Test Method 11.4 and a modified ASTM C1585 test method. Abrasion resistance was evaluated based on six cycles of testing to measure mass loss in accordance with ASTM C944/C994M and two cycles of testing using the Chaplin Abrasion Tester. ASTM C944/C944M tests were inconclusive, with large variations in mass loss. Tests conducted using the Chaplin Abrasion Tester as well as absorption testing per modified ASTM C1585 indicate that a lithium silicate-based sealer may be a good candidate for further investigation in exposed aggregate applications. Also, it's not clear whether water curing provided any benefit for absorption or abrasion resistance.