Hydrophobic Hybrid Mortar

Project partners:

Munich School of Bioengineering (MSB, Professor Lieleg)

P&T technische Mörtel

Fritz Wiedemann & Sohn GmbH.

Many damage mechanisms for cementitious materials are caused by the penetration of moisture or the associated transport of ions (such as chloride or sulfate ions). Previous approaches to prevent the ingress of moisture are based on hydrophobic coatings. However, water can accumulate behind these coating once they are damaged. The ZIM-project "Hydrophobic mortar" deals with the development of a super-hydrophobic mortar which obtains hydrophobic properties by the addition of a biological additive (bacterial biofilm). These water-repellent properties are not only obtained superficially, but holistically pronounced in the material. This hybrid material should be used e.g. for the rehabilitation of sewage pipes. However, it has not yet been clarified which part of the bacterial biofilm, which may be freshly or freeze-dried added as a powder, is responsible for the hydrophobization of the mortar and whether there are any commercially available chemicals or macromolecules which can achieve the same effect.

Project start: 01.10.2018

Duration: 2018-2021

Funding: ZIM

Person in charge: Marvin Ertelt