Investigation of the change in the characteristic properties of epoxy and silane coated natural stone surfaces

Abstract

Travertine is a natural stone with macro and micropores; these pores are connected by capillary means. Their visual appearance and porous structure add a different style and diversify their usage areas. However, the large pore structure of travertine brings some limitations in determining the usage areas. In the study, protective solutions called silane and epoxy, which provide protection against water, were used to prevent and/or minimize decomposition in areas of use, depending on the porosity of the travertine, and their effects on travertine were compared. Treatment of both chemicals separately on the travertine surface was carried out by spraying, applying with a brush, and dipping into chemicals. With the findings obtained from the physical examinations after curing, the work continued using the applying and dipping method. The dipping method was evaluated with the chemical's 10, 20, and 40-minute waiting times. The study found that the best application conditions were chemical immersion for 10 minutes. However, in SO2 wear experiments, it was understood that surfaces treated with epoxy were more durable due to the high viscosity of the chemical. As a result, it has been determined that silane application provides more effective surface protection results than epoxy.