New Protective Coatings Based on Sulfur Nanoparticles Produced from Potassium Polysulfide

Introduction. Impregnation with a new solution based on potassium polysulfide showed excellent results in the hydrophobization of cement stone and cement-sand mortar due to the formation of a nanoscale water-repellent coating on the surface of the pores from sulfur nanoparticles formed as a result of the destruction of the molecule during the drying process. An innovative solution based on potassium polysulfide refers to polysulfur compounds, from which, as a result of the destruction of polysulfide molecules, a nanoscale layer of sulfur particles is formed on the surface. Materials and research methods. Potassium polysulfide solutions of different densities were used for impregnation; the properties of the solutions were tested on cubic samples with a 40 mm edge, made on the basis of cement and cement-sand mortar. Particle characteristics were evaluated using a laser particle size analyzer, an electron microscope and a diffractometer. Results. The analysis showed that the average size of the particles forming the protective coating is 20 nm, they have a spherically symmetric shape and crystallize into an orthorhombic crystal lattice structure. The treatment of concrete with a solution of potassium polysulfide ensures the formation of a coating based on nanosized sulfur on the surface of the pores of the stone, which partially fills the pore space and, being hydrophobic, reduces the water absorption of samples by 2–3 times, and the water absorption of samples impregnated under vacuum for 0.5 hours, decreases to values of 1.3–1.9%. Results and discussion. Modification of concrete with an impregnating composition developed by us with a solution based on potassium polysulfide The impregnating solution based on potassium polysulfide is stable in the concentration range of 1.15–1.35 g/cm3; upon impregnation, it penetrates into the pore structure of concrete at a level of up to 4 cm or more, depending on the growth and structure of the sample. When the material dries in its pores, sulfur nanoparticles crystallize from the polysulfide solution, partially filling the pore space and forming a protective durable insoluble hydrophobic coating that makes it difficult for water to penetrate into the pores of concrete, but retains its vapor permeability, which is important for wall and facing materials. Conclusions. Impregnation of road building materials and concrete products with a composition based on potassium polysulfide improves their performance properties, increases durability and resistance to weathering, which makes it possible to recommend it for use in the climatic conditions of the Russian Federation.