impregnácia

Impregnácia is a term often used in materials science and engineering to describe a process of saturating a porous material with a liquid substance. This liquid, known as the impregnating agent or impregnant, fills the voids within the material, altering its properties. The purpose of impregnation can vary widely, depending on the material and the agent used.

Common applications include protecting wood from moisture and decay, enhancing the durability of concrete by filling pores with a sealant, or improving the electrical insulation properties of components. In textiles, impregnation can make fabrics water-repellent or flame-retardant. The process typically involves immersing the material in the liquid, sometimes under pressure or vacuum to ensure complete penetration. After saturation, excess liquid may be removed, and the impregnant might be cured or solidified within the material. The specific impregnating agent is chosen based on the desired outcome, with options ranging from oils and resins to polymers and specialized chemicals. The resulting properties of the impregnated material are a combination of the original material's characteristics and the effects of the impregnating agent.