Hydrophobization of marble pore surfaces using a total immersion treatment method – Product selection and optimization of concentration and treatment time

•We investigate six fluorochemicals for hydrophobization of marble surfaces.•Variations in concentration and treatment time were used to optimize performance.•The best performing chemical (Capstone FS-63) was further optimized.•An almost perfect surface protection, even after UV degradation, is attained.•The optimized treatment does not impede the water vapor diffusion through the stone.

Six products containing either fluorosurfactants or fluorinated polymers have been evaluated for hydrophobization of marble stones by a total immersion method. Successful hydrophobization was verified by water contact angle and capillary absorption measurements before and after intentional UV degradation of the outmost modified layer. Optimization of treatment time and solution concentration concluded that for the best performing product, Capstone FS-63, a 24 h immersion in a 10 vol% aqueous solution was required to obtain marble stones fully protected toward water absorption. The presented surface modifications could significantly increase the product lifespan of a variety of marble products.