Fabrication of super-hydrophobic surfaces for enhanced stone protection

In the current study, we demonstrate that the modification of a commercial siloxane protective composition by the addition of silica nanoparticles substantially enhances its protective efficiency and renders the treated stone surface super-hydrophobic and self-cleaning. The extent of surface hydrophobization depends on nanoparticle concentration and reaches a maximum value of ~ 160° at 1% w/v of nanoparticles for the case of white Greek marbles (Naxos, Pentelic and Thassos) treated with the modified composition. The investigation of the surface morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals the presence of micron-sized protrusions (10-100 μm in diameter) formed by nanoparticle aggregates consolidated by the siloxane polymer. The diameter and surface density of the protrusions depend on nanoparticle concentration. The developed nanostructure of the protrusions was observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The nano-dimensions of the silica particles are essential for the superhydrophobization of the treated marble surfaces. In the case of micron-sized silica particles that were mixed with siloxane and were applied accordingly on similar white Greek marbles, the superhydrophobic effect was not achieved and the observed water contact angles were substantially lower. In the event that hydrophobicity is not the sole parameter of optimal stone and stone-monuments protection, other important parameters, such as water vapor permeability, water capillary absorption and stone color alterations, were also investigated and their dependence on nanoparticle concentration was established.