Enhancement of concrete surface by coating with cement‑based alkaline activator

The exterior surface damage of concrete is a major problem for sub-structures and super-structures which are manufactured from concrete. In recent years, the protection of concrete exterior surfaces has attracted the attention of many researchers. This paper shows that alkaline activator coating materials (AACM) are used for curing concrete exterior surfaces. The curing of the concrete exterior surface with AACM helps to significantly reduce porosity in most products of building construction materials like hardened concrete and mortar plasters when they applied to their exterior surface. A chemical reaction occurs with unreactive Portland cement on the concrete exterior surface that always binds silicates to the concrete surface which in turn leads to decrease sucking of water into the concrete exterior surface. AACM can penetrate with the concrete exterior surface which helps to increase the deepness of waterproofing applied to the concrete exterior surface. The operation is simple to use, leaves no remnant and dries in a short time. It is ideal when it’s used on the concrete exterior surface and additionally it is appropriate for types of concrete exterior faces. The results presented the positive effect of alkaline activator coating materials AACM on the visual appearance, water-absorption, water-penetration, and sulfate attack. Alkaline activator coating has the same performance, but it would be cheaper when compared to the oil-based products.