Abstract
In this study the effect of pore structure on the mechanical properties and durability characteristics of Self-Compacting Mortars (SCM) containing nano-Al2O3 (NA) and class F fly ash are investigated. Al2O3 nanoparticles with the maximum size of 15 nm in three different proportions of 1, 3 and 5% of the binder content were utilized to partially replace the cement. The 25% of the cement weight was also replaced by class F fly ash. The pore structure of cement mortars was determined through the Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP) and Gas Adsorption (BET) methods. The microstructure of the SCMs was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results indicated a reasonable correlation which was observed between the pore structure and other properties of mortars. The addition of the NA at proportions over 1% led to an increase in the pore volume of specimens by virtue of agglomeration. In overall, it seems that 1% NA can be considered as a suitable replacement regarding the pore structure and hardened properties.
Highlights
Over the last few decades, Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) has gained great attention due to many advantages over conventional concrete
The same trend was observed in the flow diameter test; the workability was improved by the addition of nanoparticles
The compressive strength of the specimens was decreased by the addition of NA up to 1 wt%
Summary
Over the last few decades, Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) has gained great attention due to many advantages over conventional concrete. SCC is able to be compacted under its own weight without the need for vibration, segregation or bleeding. This results the SCC application to facilitate and ensure precise filling of restricted areas and heavily reinforced structural members (Nazari and Riahi, 2011a; Safiuddin et al, 2010; Oltulu and Sahin, 2013; Jalal et al, 2012; Madandoust et al, 2011). The application of self-compacting mortar is one of the most active research areas in the field of both civil engineering and construction materials due to the benefits it offers in comparison with the SCC. Laboratory tests of mortar are easier than those of concrete (Rashad, 2013)
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