The background to establishment of the committee was the growing public concern over global environmental issues, leading to environmental preservation measures being urged on the construction and concrete industries. Committee discussions revolved around what materials could contribute to this response and what systems can be put in place to supply them.

Among several surface protection methods, the subcommittee focused its activity on silicate-based penetrants that are expected to improve properties of concrete surface layer, to heal cracks and to prevent deteriorations of concrete structures.