Traditionally, the term "impregnator" is primarily associated with "sealing"—applying a varnish or another type of dense coating onto a given surface. In reality, however, there is a different type of technology for protecting surfaces against liquid penetration. It does not involve the use of a dense protective layer but is instead based on one of the fundamental forces of nature: surface tension.
What is Surface Tension?
Surface tension is a physical property that causes the free surface of a liquid to strive for the minimum possible area. At a molecular level, this is explained by cohesive forces: molecules inside the liquid are attracted equally from all sides, while those on the surface experience a strong attraction only inward toward the bulk of the liquid.
When a liquid droplet comes into contact with a solid, a so-called contact angle (ψ) is formed:
- Wetting: If the surface has high energy (as with untreated concrete or stone), it attracts water strongly. The contact angle is acute (ψ < 90°), and the liquid spreads out, penetrating deep into the pores.
- Non-wetting (Water Repellency): If the surface has low energy, the cohesive forces of the water prevail. It maintains its spherical shape, and the contact angle becomes obtuse (ψ > 90°).
The Transformation: From Quartz to Hydrophobizer
At the core of this technology lies silicon dioxide ($SiO_2$), the chemical name for the mineral quartz. In its natural state, it is hydrophilic ("water-loving") because its surface is saturated with silanol ($SiOH$) groups.
To turn this "quartz" into an active protector, it undergoes chemical modification with silanes. During this process, silanol groups are replaced by hydrophobic organic groups. The result is the creation of a so-called "molecular forest"—a network that changes the surface energy to a point where it no longer attracts water molecules but actively repels them.
How Do SiloTreat Impregnators Work?
Unlike mass-market products often perceived as a "sealer" or varnish, SiloTreat utilizes innovative silane technology with a different mechanism:
- Deep Penetration at the Nano-level: Thanks to its extremely small monomeric molecules (approx. 1 nm) and low viscosity, SiloTreat penetrates deep into the capillary structure of the material rather than remaining only on the surface.
- Chemical Bonding: The active substances enter into a chemical reaction with the mineral substrate, bonding permanently to the inner walls of the pores. This creates an "invisible shield" resistant to UV rays and abrasion.
- Breathability Effect: SiloTreat does not physically fill the pores; it only changes their energy. Since the capillaries remain open, water vapor can freely evaporate from the inside out. This prevents structural damage typical of dense coatings.
Solutions for Every Material
By choosing the right impregnator, you ensure long-lasting surface protection:
- Concrete Impregnator: Stops the transport of salts and chlorides through capillaries, protecting reinforcement from corrosion and preventing efflorescence (white spots).
- Stone Impregnator: Preserves the authentic look of natural stone, protecting it from darkening, stains, and weathering, thereby slowing the erosion process.
- Roof Tile & Brick Impregnator: Prevents rainwater absorption, moss growth, and roof degradation during freeze-thaw cycles.
- Plaster Impregnator: Protects facades from atmospheric pollution and dark streaks during rain, without changing the color or adding artificial gloss to the plaster.
- Wood Impregnator: Modifies the surface energy of the wood, making it highly hydrophobic without sealing it.
- Textile & Leather Impregnator: A modern solution for furniture, clothing, and car interiors. The nano-layer protects fibers from stain penetration without changing the feel or strength of the fabric.
Why Choose SiloTreat Impregnators?
In summary—SiloTreat nano-impregnators are not sealers. They do not change the appearance of the surface; instead, they change the behavior of the material itself at a molecular level, remaining unaffected by UV rays or mechanical wear (pedestrian or vehicular traffic, erosion).
SiloTreat transforms mineral surfaces from hydrophilic to actively water-repellent.
Need a consultation to choose the right impregnator? Contact our team for professional advice.
