The effect of nano-CaCO<sub>3</sub> on the mechanical properties and permeability of roller compacted concrete pavement (RCCP)

Abstract

The paper presents the investigations of the mechanical properties water absorption and porosity of the roller compacted concrete pavements (RCCP) with different amounts of nano-CaCO3. The nano-particles of CaCO3 were partially added to RCCP, and the mechanical properties of the specimens were measured. The results indicate that nano-CaCO3 can improve the compressive strength and the tensile splitting strength of RCCP. The nano-CaCO3 used up to 1% as a partial replacement for cement can accelerate the C-S-H gel formation at the early ages of hydration. This is due to increased crystalline Ca(OH)2 amount during the early ages of hydration. Increasing nano-CaCO3 content by more than 1% decreases the compressive and tensile splitting strength, and increases water absorption and permeability. The addition of CaCO3 nano-particles may increase C-S-H content, which improves the mechanical properties of concrete, fills the concrete pores, and decreases water absorption and permeable voids volume.