Protecting Concrete Surfaces Against Frost – a Study of Sealing Products Used on Airfields

Concrete, which is susceptible to frost and thawing salts, is protected by adding an air-entraining admixture, which leads to air content levels of 3.5 to 6% being achieved. Another possible protection involves the application of a sealant which prevents water penetration. In this instance, resistance to scaling as a result of frost-thaw cycles is measured in accordance with the ISO/DIS - 4846-2 standard. Test samples whose upper surface is covered with a de-icing salt solution are subjected to 30 frost-thaw cycles with measurement of the loss of mass after every 5 cycles. In this contribution, the results of a number of both solvent- and water-based sealing products are outlined for a series of different types of thawing salts frequently used on airfields. These results are presented in terms of absolute value (i.e. the average loss of mass after 30 cycles) and also as regards relative value, expressed in terms of effectiveness