The Liqui-Hard Sealer offered by WR Meadows is a water-based sodium silicate sealer. The sealer is a penetrating product, meaning the small particles of silicate will penetrate through the pores of the concrete surface to which it is applied. Once within the concrete substrate, the chemicals will react with other alkalis and chemicals within the concrete to help fill in the pores, densifying the concrete and protecting against moisture seepage and the passage of harmful gases through the material.
The WR Meadows product is one of the weaker sodium silicate products on the market. It’s ratio of silicate to water is 20/80, meaning the solution is a blend of 20% silicate to 80% water. The weak ratio means your concrete will not be as well protected, as there will not be as many particles of silicate to react within the concrete. The water is a non-entity in the protection of the concrete, serving merely as the vessel to transport the silicate particles within the material; it will evaporate soon after.
The weakness of the blend makes it a less desirable option when compared to other products that offer higher ratios, or even concentrated products you mix yourself, which are the best option. Aside from the weakness, the product is solid, with a low-VOC content that is VOC compliant in all states with strict environmental regulations. Because it is so weak, and so environmentally friendly, the use of the product may help your company earn LEED credits and the benefits that go along with success in the program.