The study of the possibility of silicon dioxide coatings modified by (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane as protective materials for stone

Silicon dioxide coatings modified by (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (ATS) were studied to test their potential use as materials for stone protection. The synthetic route is simple and environmentally friendly due to the lack of volatile organic components. These materials are simply obtained by mixing tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), ATS, and OH-terminal polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS-OH). The ATS acts as a curing catalyst and coupling agent. The formulations can be directly applied onto stone substrates, particularly the external stone of buildings. Thus, the goal of an application of silicon dioxide modified by ATS is to restore and to protect building substrates. In the hybrid materials, PDMS acts to form bridges linking the silica particles. Finally, the effectiveness of these products as a stone consolidant and coating was assessed by multiple indicators, including the mechanical resistance, peeling performance, water uptake by capillarity, and contact angle.