A research into the distribution of silicium dioxide nanoparticles in the mixing water

Abstract

Introduction. The co-authors studied suspensions of silicium dioxide nanoparticles in the water. The application of suspensions helps to most effectively add nanoparticles to slip ceramic mixtures and mixtures that contain concrete. A review of publications has proven that Russian and foreign researchers are willing to learn more about nanoparticles used to modify various materials. Particles having different chemical properties are applied depending on the types of problems to be solved. The method of ultrasonic dispersion of fillers in the matrix material is widely used; surfactants stabilize suspensions and mortars. Silicon dioxide, being one of the cheapest ultra-dispersed powders, has been proven as an active filler designated for building materials.
 Materials and methods. A method of ultrasonic dispersion was used to uniformly distribute nanoparticles in the water. A surfactant was added to the suspension to reduce the reaggregation of particles and to rise the stability of suspensions in the course of time. The turbidimetric method was employed to control the nanoparticle distribution efficiency in the suspension, and a spectrophotometer was used to identify the dimensions of solid particles by measuring the optical density.
 Results. The co-authors have proven the efficiency of the ultrasonic method in distributing nano-sized particles over the water. The suspensions, developed by the co-authors, were used to mold samples of ceramics; a scanning electron microscope and a nozzle, designated for the identification of chemical compositions, were used to identify dimensions of nanoparticle conglomerates in the matrix. The co-authors identified the concentration of OP-10 surfactant that was optimal for the destruction of conglomerates in the suspension; the impact of the ultrasonic treatment duration was assessed in respect of the suspension.
 Conclusions. The research findings can be contributed to ceramic production technologies for versatile nanoparticles to be employed to modify materials.