Bianco Carrara Arabesque Marble Mosaic and Water: A Must-Read for Construction
Key Factors: Hydrophobicity, Water Absorption, and Moisture Content
When it comes to waterproofing Bianco Carrara Arabesque Marble Mosaic, three technical parameters play a crucial role:
- Water Repellency
- Water Absorption
- Moisture Content
Understanding Hydrophobicity and Water Absorption
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Anorexia (Water Repellency):
- The larger the angle (θ) of the water droplets, the higher the water repellency.
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Hydrophilicity (Water Absorption):
- The smaller the angle (θ) of the water droplets, the stronger the hydrophilicity.
Stronger Hydrophobicity = Better Water Resistance
- A marble mosaic with strong water repellency resists moisture and water damage effectively.
Good Hydrophilicity = Poor Water Resistance
- A marble mosaic with high water absorption is more vulnerable to stains and deterioration.
Water Absorption and Its Impact
Water absorption and hydrophobicity are two sides of the same coin:
- The higher the water absorption rate, the greater the risk of contamination and deterioration.
- The lower the water absorption rate, the better the protection against stains and damage.
Classification of Stones by Water Absorption Rate:
- Low water absorption rate: 0.01% ~ 0.09%
- Medium water absorption rate: 0.1% ~ 0.5%
- High water absorption rate: 0.51% ~ 2% or higher
Common Water-Related Issues in Marble
Why Does Marble Return Alkali?
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Porosity & Water Absorption:
- Marble is naturally porous, allowing water and pollutants to penetrate, leading to stone deterioration.
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Salt-Alkali Spots Formation:
- Soluble salts within the stone are brought to the surface by water vapor, forming white spots or powdery deposits.
Visual Effect of Alkali Return
- White powdery deposits or a thin white layer may appear on the surface of the Bianco Carrara Arabesque Marble Mosaic.
By understanding these factors, proper protection and waterproofing techniques can be applied to ensure long-lasting beauty and durability in marble installations.
