The action of APTES as coupling agent of ethylsilicate for limestone and marble consolidation

In the framework of the Eu-Artech project the action of an organoalkoxysilane coupling agent (aminopropyltriethoxysilane) was studied when applied as an integral blend in a solution of ethyl silicate on limestones and marble. Anca and Lecce highly porous limestones and Carrara marble (Gioia type) were used as substrates. The consolidation action was evaluated in terms of the impregnation depth and modification of the mechanical characteristics by means of the drilling resistance. The results confirm the APTES ability to increase the consolidating action of ethyl silicate and, apparently, of turning the ethyl silicate more reactive, creating a clear strength peak in the first millimetres of the treated surface.