Study of waterproof ability and corrosion resistance of basalt fiber-reinforced concrete with superhydrophobic surfaces

Basalt fiber-reinforced concrete (BFRC) is used extensively in bridge engineering. However, seawater can cause the cracking of BFRC bridge concrete and the corrosion of steel reinforcement inside the concrete. In this study, an efficient fabrication method of the superhydrophobic surface of BFRC was used to improve its durability. BFRC has high surface compactness, and sodium stearate can play a better role as a modifier. Through the orthogonal study, superhydrophobic BFRC was prepared, and the effects of three major factors (temperature, time, and concentration) on the wettability of BFRC were investigated. The soaking time and solution concentration were more significant than any other factor. The capillary water absorption of the superhydrophobic BFRC was reduced compared to the BFRC. In addition, the soaking method could improve BFRC corrosion resistance by analyzing the equivalent circuit. The soaking method could improve the durability of BFRC effectively. Meanwhile, BFRC with a superhydrophobic surface had self-cleaning performance and good mechanical robustness. This research extends the scope and field of BFRC and provides technical support for utilizing the existing building.