Facilitating Eco-Friendly Construction Practices with the Sustainable Application of Nanomaterials in Concrete Composites

Abstract

This research concentrates on the development of Nano Modified Concrete (NMC) and evaluates its performance through an extensive analysis of various strength and durability properties. The study encompasses assessments such as slump cone test, compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, permeability and acid resistance. The objective is to appraise the structural robustness of NMC, employing Nanosilica (NS) and Nanoclay (NC) as supplementary cementitious materials. Sixteen distinct concrete mixtures underwent casting and testing, featuring diverse cement replacement rates (0%, 1%, 2%, and 3%) of NS and NC at varying addition levels (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% of nano additives by weight of fine aggregate) for each trial. Comparative analysis with conventional concrete underscores the notable enhancement in mechanical strength achieved by NMC without compromising its fresh and hardened state properties. Additionally, the incorporation of NS and NC contributes to increased slump values, facilitating improved workability due to smoother concrete surfaces. The findings suggest that the introduction of NMC leads to an overall improvement in the long-term performance of concrete structures. Adding NS and NC not only improves the properties of concrete but also plays a role in alleviating soil pollution.