Characterization of concrete surface in relation to graffiti protection coatings

Abstract

The removal of graffiti causes irreversible deterioration of fair faced concrete. The protective products are often selected without counting the properties of concrete surface leading to its insufficient protection. Chemical and micro structural effects of anti graffiti products on the concrete surface were analyzed in relation to its protection efficiency against graffiti paints. Contact angles and wetting envelope graphs were examined, allowing the understanding and prediction of wetting behavior of concrete surfaces. The obtained results revealed the changes on the concrete surface produced by graffiti, graffiti protection and graffiti removal products, showing the advantage of permanent protection coating over sacrificial one.