The researchers looked at how adding a special chemical called silane to concrete affects its ability to absorb water. They found that silane makes the concrete less likely to absorb water, which is good for preventing damage. Silane doesn't affect the strength of the concrete much, but it does change how water interacts with it. The way the concrete absorbs water changes as it absorbs more water, but the silane-treated concrete stays consistent in how it absorbs water over time. This could help predict how well the concrete will hold up against water in the long run.