Overview of Workability and Mechanical Performance of Cement-Based Composites Incorporating Nanomaterials

Abstract

The need to enhance the mechanical performance of cement-based composites such as concrete and mortar has led to the development of various innovative ways to meet the current and future performance demand. The recent trend in cement-based composites technology has shown the viability of further enhancement of the mechanical performance of cement-based composites by the incorporation of nanomaterials. As the proportions of components in cement-based composites, it is paramount for the stakeholders in the construction industry to understand how nanomaterials affect the mechanical performance of these composites. Therefore, this overview was undertaken to investigates the effect of nanomaterials on the mechanical properties of cement-based composites. Results from various studies showed that the mechanical properties of cement-based composites can be improved with the incorporation of nanomaterials. The enhancement in the mechanical properties of the cement-based composites with the incorporation of nanomaterials was attributed to the pore filling effect of the nanomaterials coupled with the ability to accelerate hydration reaction which results in the formation of more products. It was also observed that the optimum dosage of nanomaterial varies with types. Therefore, it was recommended to determine the optimum dosage of these materials before its large-scale application.