Upgrading the durability of mud bricks by impregnation

As part of a study to assess the efficacy of impregnation for masonry substrates, the impregnation of mud bricks with soluble sodium silicate followed by water-based organic silicone emulsion was investigated. The treatment was found to be successful in achieving water repellent and consolidation effects for the mud bricks. The durability of the treated mud bricks was examined through water absorption, depth of impregnation, resistance to water penetration, wetting and drying cycling, and UV/condensation weathering tests. The mechanism of water repellent and consolidation effects for the mud bricks is discussed.