Created in the 19th century to emulate the durability of medieval frescoes, silicate paint uses liquid potassium silicate — so-called 'liquid glass' — as its binder. Its physico-chemical behaviour makes it the perfect ally of mineral architecture and historic restoration.
Most of today's paints (acrylic, styrene-based) adhere to the wall like a glue, forming a surface plastic film. Silicate paint, on the other hand, penetrates the pores of the substrate and reacts chemically with the calcium salts present in the render. This reaction — silicification — generates an insoluble microcrystalline structure of hydrated calcium silicate. The paint is no longer an added coating: it physically becomes part of the wall itself.
Having a crystalline structure similar to that of sand, this finish allows almost 100% of water vapour to pass through (Sd < 0.01 m), preventing the detachment caused by internal moisture. Its strongly alkaline pH (~11) acts as a natural fungicide and algaecide without releasing biocides into the environment. Its only limit is compatibility: silicification occurs only on bare mineral substrates.
Standards
European and international references applicable.
Physical properties
Usage environment
Silicatisation occurs only on bare mineral substrates (lime plaster, cement, stone, brick). It is not compatible with surfaces already coated with acrylic or washable paints.