The Effect of Seawater on Mortar Matrix Coated with Hybrid Nano-Silica-Modified Surface Protection Materials

Surface treatment technology is an effective method to reinforce the durability of concrete. In this study, cement-based materials containing industrial solid wastes were modified by hybrid nano-silica (HN), then applied as a novel surface protection material (SPM-HN). The effect of SPM-HN on surface hardness of mortar matrix exposed to seawater was investigated. Further, the microstructure was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results show SPM-HN could significantly enhance the surface hardness of matrix in seawater curing, and the rebound number is increased by 94%.The microstructure analysis demonstrates that the incorporation of HN inhibits the formation of ettringite, thaumasite, and Friedel’s salt. In addition, thermodynamic modeling shows the incorporation of hybrid nano-silica could generate more C-S-H, and decrease the maximum volume of Friedel’s salt when SPM is exposed to seawater. This research indicates SPM-HN can be applied as a concrete protective layer in the marine environment.