Adobe-bricks surface treatment methods for improved water resistance

The main problem with clay-based surfaces is the reduced resistance to water action. Literature does not indicate scientifically validated solutions for surface treatment. However, there are reports that indicate the benefits of impregnating surfaces with animal oils, vegetable oils, petroleum products, etc. The aim of this paper is to identify a solution for treating the surface of earth made bricks, in order to increase the degree of waterproofing and the resistance to water action, using local materials, specific to the western part of Romania. To achieve this, was used a surface treatment based on marble, lime, sand, clay, and water permeation reducing additive. On clay surfaces treated with this material, water vapor permeability and water penetration under wind pressure tests were conducted. The experimental results obtained indicated the optimal composition for the surface treatment material so that it does not crack upon drying, have good adhesion to the substrate, and improve substrate resistance to water action.