Abstract: Synergy between component parts of desiccants is disclosed that teaches how to augment performance of desiccants in the reduction of humidity. Single component desiccants lack the synergistic effect. The problem of single component deficiency is solved by the disclosed methods that generally engage the synergy between humidity attracting substances and polymeric substances. Synergy is observed in the improved desiccation being greater than the sum of the desiccating effects of the component parts. Resultant products are dual purpose in that they can be used both as desiccants and component parts of packaging materials.

Abstract: Compositions useful as desiccants are disclosed. The compositions may be prepared by admixing components comprising a hygroscopic material and an organic polymer in a solvent to form a solution, followed by drying the solution to remove solvent and provide a moisture-deficient hygroscopic material dispersed in the organic polymer. Alternatively, the compositions may be prepared by admixing components comprising a hygroscopic material and molten organic polymer to form a fluid admixture, followed by cooling the fluid admixture to a non-fluid state. The compositions of the present invention may comprise (1) a hygroscopic material dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol, (2) a deliquescent material dispersed in an organic polymer, or (3) hygroscopic material and polymeric material both dissolved in solvent.

Abstract: The moisture content within, and moisture flow in and out of, porous building materials such as masonry, brick, concrete, and mortar, can be affected by coating the building material with polyvinyl alcohol, or by incorporating polyvinyl alcohol into the building material. The resultant control of moisture movement can influence the suction of the building material, leading to improved bonding with adjacent building material, and can also retard efflorescence.

Abstract: Efflorescence of building material, such as portland cement based building products, masonry, brick, concrete, and mortar, can be retarded by contacting the building material with polyvinylalcohol (PVOH). The PVOH may be dissolved in solvent, preferably water, and either applied to a surface of the building material, or added to the components that form the building material. The PVOH has a hydrolysis percentage above about 90%.

Abstract: A method for retarding the efflorescence of masonry comprises applying to the masonry a coating consisting of a glycol such as polyethylene glycol in an acidic solution, having a pH of about 5.5, the solution being applied at the rate of about 100 sq. ft. per gallon.