NANO CONCRETE

A SEMINAR REPORT
submitted by

PRIYANSHU PANDEY (U21CE013)

in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
CIVIL ENGINEERING

under the supervision of

Dr. B. KONDRAIVENDHAN
(Assistant Professor)

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

SARDAR VALLABHBHAI NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, SURAT
NOVEMBER 2023

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 CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the project report NANO CONCRETE submitted by PRIYANSHU PANDEY
(U21CE013) to the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology Surat, in the partial
fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Technology in Civil
Engineering is a bona fide record of work carried out by the student under my supervision. The
contents of this report, in full or in parts, have not been submitted to any other Institute or University
for the award of any degree or diploma.

Dr. R. A. Christian Dr. B. Kondraivendhan

Head of the Department Assistant Professor
Civil Engineering Department of Civil Engineering
S.V. National Institute of Technology S.V. National Institute of Technology
Surat Surat

Surat
Date:

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 CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL

This is to certify that the Seminar report entitled NANO CONCRETE submitted by PRIYANSHU
PANDEY (U21CE013) to the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology Surat, in the
partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Technology in Civil
Engineering has been accepted by the examination committee and that the student has successfully
completed the examination held today.

(Internal Examiner) (External Examiner)

Place: Surat
Date:

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I have taken a lot of learnings from this seminar. However, this would not have been possible
without the kind support of many individuals. I am highly indebted to the respected Head of
Department Dr. R. A. Christian, Department of Civil Engineering, S.V.N.I.T., Surat for
providing me an opportunity to present my seminar on “Nano Concrete”. I extend my
sincere gratitude to my project guide Dr. B. Kondraivendhan, Department of Civil
Engineering, S.V.N.I.T., Surat for his valuable guidance, constant supervision and for giving
necessary information. I would like to thank my family and friends for their support and
constant encouragement, which helped me in completing this seminar successfully.

Priyanshu Pandey
(U21CE013)

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 ABSTRACT

Exploration of how nanotechnology can be harnessed in the construction industry and the
advancement of building structures is a major area of focus in the academic and scientific
community. Nanomaterials possess exceptional chemical and physical properties that offer a
wide range of applications, from strengthening structural integrity to addressing
environmental issues and creating self-cleaning materials. Concrete, being a fundamental
material in structural applications, heavily relies on properties such as stiffness, strength, and
cost.

This paper provides an overview of nanotechnology, with a specific emphasis on its

application in the construction industry, particularly in the realm of concrete production. It
commences by offering fundamental information and definitions related to nanotechnology
and then proceeds to examine key nano-additives that play a significant role in enhancing
concrete properties. These additives encompass nano-silica and silica fume, nano-titanium
dioxide, iron oxide, chromium oxide, nanoclay, CaCO3, Al2O3, carbon nanotubes, and
graphene oxide. The paper not only summarizes the primary nanomaterials used in concrete
production and the outcomes associated with each addition but also discusses potential future
implications of nanotechnology advancements and directions for further exploration within
the construction sector.

KEYWORDS: Nanotechnology; concrete; nanomaterials; cement; composites

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. The nanoscale architecture of calcium-silicate-hydrate……………………………11

Figure 2. Top-Down strategy and Bottom-Up strategy………………………………………15

Figure 3. Mixing of materials to form Nano-Concrete………………………………………16

Figure 4. Wet Mixing Process………………………………………………………………..17

Figure 5. Curing of specimen…………………………………………………………….…..17

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.....................................................................................................4

ABSTRACT..............................................................................................................................5

LIST OF FIGURES..................................................................................................................6

CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................8

1.1 What is Nano-Concrete?..............................................................................................................8

1.2 NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION......................................................................................9
1.2.1 Nanotechnology and concrete..............................................................................................9
LITERATURE REVIEWS....................................................................................................13

CHAPTER 2. MANUFACTURING PROCEDURE OF NANO-CONCRETE...............15

CHAPTER 3. CHARACTERISTICS & PROPERTIES OF NANO-CONCRETE........18

3.1 Introduction...............................................................................................................................18
3.2 Permeability of Nano-Concrete.................................................................................................21
3.3 Nano Concrete Frost Resistance................................................................................................22
SUMMARY.............................................................................................................................23

REFERENCES.......................................................................................................................24

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 CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is Nano-Concrete?

Concrete stands as the primary material in contemporary architectural endeavours. As
population surges and industrialization progresses, the utilisation of concrete has escalated,
solidifying its status as a critical raw material for industrial construction. Acknowledged as a
pivotal industrial resource, concrete boasts numerous advantages, including effortless
shaping, robust compression resistance, heightened stiffness, and a broad spectrum of raw
material options. Despite its strengths, there are limitations to its application in certain
domains.

Nanometer materials pertain to finely sized materials with dimensions on the nanometer scale
(1-100 nm), surpassing atomic clusters (clusters with atoms less than 1nm) but smaller than
conventional powders. Nanometer-sized materials occupy a unique position in the space
between small clusters and macroscopic entities. Their tiny dimensions and expansive surface
area give rise to four distinct effects: the size effect, quantum effect, surface effect, and
interface effect. These effects chiefly shed light on the structural, chemical, and physical
characteristics of nanomaterials, earning them the designation of "the most promising
materials of the 21st century."

Nano-mineral powders predominantly consist of substances like nano-silica, nano-calcium

carbonate, and nano-silica powder.In ordinary Portland cement, gel pores within the 10-100
nm range are present, and the integration of nano-powders serves to fill these gaps,
augmenting concrete permeability and resilience.

Nano-concrete refers to concrete where the cementing agent comprises Portland cement
particles smaller than 500 nanometers. Presently, cement particles range from a few
nanometers to a maximum of around 100 micrometres. However, to create nano-cement, a
reduction by an order of magnitude in particle size is essential, targeting an average particle
size of 5 micrometres for micro-cement.

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1.2 NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION

1.2.1 Nanotechnology and concrete

A substantial amount of research is currently focused on the intricate analysis of concrete at
the nanoscale. This involves leveraging various advanced techniques tailored for nanoscale
investigations, such as Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Scanning Electron Microscopy
(SEM), and Focused Ion Beam (FIB). By delving into the fundamental structure of concrete
using these methods, scientists can gain valuable insights.

One significant development arising from nanoscale concrete studies is the enhancement of
particle packing within concrete through the utilization of nano-silica. This results in a
densification of the micro and nanostructure, consequently leading to improved mechanical
properties. Additionally, the incorporation of nano-silica in cement-based materials can
effectively control the degradation of the fundamental C-S-H (calcium-silicatehydrate)
reaction due to calcium leaching in water, ultimately bolstering durability and blocking water
penetration.

In connection with the optimization of particle packing, high-energy milling of ordinary

portland cement (OPC) clinker and standard sand has been employed to reduce particle size
effectively. This refinement leads to a substantial increase in compressive strength, ranging
from 3 to 6 times higher than conventional OPC, depending on the age of the material.

Another class of nanoparticles, titanium dioxide (TiO2), is introduced into concrete to

enhance its properties. TiO2, a white pigment, serves as an excellent reflective coating and
can break down organic pollutants and bacterial membranes through powerful catalytic
reactions. This quality makes it effective in reducing airborne pollutants when applied to
outdoor surfaces. Furthermore, its hydrophilic nature imparts self-cleaning properties to the
surfaces it coats, as rainwater is attracted to the surface, forming sheets that collect and wash

9
away previously broken-down pollutants and dirt. The resulting concrete retains its white
color effectively.

Researchers are also exploring the benefits of adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to concrete.
Small amounts (1% by weight) of CNTs have shown potential in improving the mechanical
properties of cement-based samples. Oxidized multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs) exhibit the
most significant enhancements in terms of compressive and flexural strength. However,
challenges include the tendency of CNTs to clump together and a lack of cohesion between
CNTs and the matrix material. Further work is needed to determine the optimal CNT content
and dispersing agents in the mix design, although cost considerations remain a potential
barrier at present.

Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) represents a noteworthy development that eliminates the
need for vibration during its placement and consolidation. This innovation reduces energy
consumption during concrete construction, enhancing sustainability. SCC also offers labor
cost savings of up to 50% due to its quicker pouring and reduced formwork wear and tear. It
behaves like a thick fluid and relies on polycarboxylates, a material developed using
nanotechnology, to achieve this remarkable fluidity.

Moreover, the application of fiber wrapping to enhance the strength of existing concrete
structural elements is now commonplace. Innovations in this process include the use of a
fiber sheet containing nano-silica particles and hardeners. These nanoparticles infiltrate and
seal small cracks on the concrete surface, and in strengthening applications, they form a
robust bond between the concrete surface and the fiber reinforcement.

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 Crystallised C-S-H Atomic resolution
2*2 µm² 20*20 nm²

Fig 1.1. The nanoscale architecture of calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) formed on a

calcite substrate.

Nanotechnology holds tremendous promise for the construction industry, particularly in the
context of concrete, a material known for its complex, multi-phase composition. Concrete's
properties are deeply influenced by the unique characteristics of its constituents, making it an
ideal candidate to benefit from nanotechnology. Scholarly research on the integration of
nanotechnology into concrete and building construction has concentrated on several aspects,
including the nanostructure, modification of the atomic structure of concrete and cement-
based materials, and their fracture mechanisms.

Nanotechnology has the potential to enhance the bulk properties of concrete, leading to
thinner final products, quicker setting times, and reduced vulnerability to environmental
damage. Moreover, it can facilitate the utilization of marginal and recycled materials,
expanding the range of acceptable sources for concrete production and making construction
more cost-effective. Additionally, nanotechnology has proven beneficial in preventing cracks
and reducing shrinkage in concrete, offering tools to modify these properties and potentially
increase the lifespan of concrete structures.

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One key focus of nanotechnology in concrete is the improvement of the aggregate-paste
bond, which can lead to increased compressive strength and enhanced durability of hardened
concrete. The application of nanotechnology involves the nano-modification of concrete,
encompassing nanoscience, which includes the measurement and characterization of the nano
and microscale structures of cement-based materials. This understanding of the microscale
structure allows for the development of tailored cementitious composites with advanced
properties, such as low electrical resistivity, self-sensing capabilities, self-cleaning, self-
healing, high ductility, and controlled crack propagation.

However, to achieve greater progress in the field of nano-concrete, an in-depth understanding

of the calcium-silicate-hydrate gel (C-S-H) is essential. The complex chemical reactions
between cement, water, and resulting products create a material with intricate properties. The
dominant component, C-S-H gel, has a nanoscale structure that is challenging to model and
comprehend. This gel is responsible for the strength and other crucial properties in
cementitious systems, with a structure resembling that of clay, consisting of thin solid layers
separated by gel pores filled with interlayer and adsorbed water. Although there is evidence
of two types of C-S-H gel structures, low-density and high-density, it remains unclear how
these structures impact the mechanical properties of concrete material. The low-density C-S-
H gel, with its tendency to expand into porosity, appears to be of particular significance.

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 LITERATURE REVIEWS

Li et al. (2004), they introduced nano-silica into traditional concrete and observed significant
improvements in compressive strength. After just 3 days, there was a noticeable increase in
compressive strength. This trend continued in later stages as well. The same positive
outcomes were seen when 4% nano-silica was incorporated into high-volume fly ash
concrete. This improvement extended to other mechanical properties, as evidenced in split
tensile and flexural strength tests. At 7 days and 28 days, there was an increase of
approximately 23-38% and 7-14%, respectively, in these strength characteristics.
Furthermore, the investigation into the use of nano-silica in concrete revealed a reduction in
water absorption. The coefficient of water absorption and permeability were also lower
compared to normal concrete. These findings suggest that the incorporation of nano-silica has
the potential to enhance the durability and mechanical properties of concrete while reducing
water-related issues such as absorption and permeability.

Billa et (2017) explored the partial replacement of waste plastics and waste rubber in
concrete, incrementally increasing these materials by 5% each time. They observed that the
addition of a certain minimum quantity of nano-silica led to an increase in compressive
strength. Additionally, there was a substantial improvement in the early-age strength of
concrete when compared to the 28-day strength. Although the quality of concrete was slightly
affected by the addition of nano-silica, the overall quality of the concrete was preserved.

P. Vasanthi et (2017) conducted a study on the properties and durability of nano-concrete.

They determined the compressive strength of cubes with 2% nano-silica on M40 grade
concrete that had been subjected to various chemical tests, including HCL (acid test), NaOH
(alkaline test), and Na2SO4 (sulphate test). The use of nano-silica in the concrete mix
resulted in increased compressive strength. The research demonstrated a 15% increase in
strength when immersed in HCL, a 20% increase when subjected to Na2SO4 and NaOH, and
an overall improvement in durability compared to regular concrete mixes.

Wijdan D et (2017) emphasized the significance of nano-concrete not only as an enhanced

construction material but also in terms of energy and effort conservation. They highlighted its
potential to enable the construction of creative and complex forms that were previously

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challenging to achieve with ordinary concrete. The use of nano-silica in self-compacting
concrete (S.C.C) resulted in high-strength and durable concrete, making it suitable for
constructing intricate shapes. The addition of nano titanium dioxide (Nano TiO2) facilitated
the development of self-cleaning concrete with photocatalytic properties, capable of
converting air pollutants into harmless substances with sunlight, while also accelerating
cement hydration.

Karla P. =Bautisla-Gutierrez (2019), the alterations in the physical and achemical

properties of concrete due to nanomaterial additions are emphasised. The integration of
nanomaterials ain cement-baseda materials leads to microstructural advancements. Various
nanomaterials such as nano-silica, nano-ferric oxide and graphene-abased nanomaterials are
illustrated using (SEM) images. These materials are examined in different percentages,
showcasing microstructural transformations. Additionally, the study includes compressive
strength tests and flexural strength tests employing varying nanomaterial content.
Comparative bar graphs provide a visual representation of the results. Furthermore, the work
discusses certain challenges and potential strategies for development.

Syed Nooruddin explored the incorporation of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 3.5% of nanosilica by
weight of cement. The experiment demonstrated an initial increase in concrete's compressive
strength up to 3% nanosilica, with diminishing strength as nano silica content increased
further. The study also revealed a reduction in concrete permeability with the increasing
percentage of nanosilica, attributed to the nanosilica filling voids within the concrete, along
with a reduction in CO2 emissions.

Mani. M (2017) conducted a comprehensive review of nanomaterials such as nanosilica,

nano titanium dioxide, and carbon nanotubes. Analysing various research papers, the review
summarises the factual aspects of nano concrete.

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 CHAPTER 2. MANUFACTURING PROCEDURE OF NANO-
CONCRETE

Fig 2.1. Top Down strategy and Bottom Up strategy of nanoparticle synthesis

Mixing is a fundamental process in achieving the optimal dispersion of nano-particles within

the base matrix, ensuring a thorough and uniform distribution of ingredients. In the context of
this study, the mixing method holds a pivotal role as it encompasses both dry and wet mixing
techniques. A comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the ainfluence of these
methods on the propertiesa of concrete.

Dry mixing, as one approach, involves combining nano-particles with cement powder in a
dry medium using "Ball Mill Equipment." However, an adaptation in the form of a
mechanical mixer was utilised to facilitate the proper dry mixture, thus achieving an effective
dispersion of nano-particles throughout the matrix.

On the other hand, the wet mixing technique entails blending nano-particles with water and a
chemical admixture, employing "Magnetic Stirrer Equipment." To enhance the mixing

15
process, a driller attached to a steel bar with X-shaped steel pieces at its end was employed,
promoting the uniform distribution of components within the matrix. These alternative
methods were employed with the aim of producing nano-concrete without the need for
specialised tools, making it feasible for on-site casting.

Before casting the specimens, a slump test was conducted to assess the consistency and
workability of the concrete mixture. Curing commenced immediately after casting to
facilitate the development of the desired strength and durability in the concrete.

The choice between dry and wet mixing techniques significantly impacts the final properties
of the nano-concrete, including its mechanical strength, workability, and durability. The
comparison between these methods sheds light on the most effective approach for achieving
the desired concrete properties with nano-particles.

Fig 2.2. Mixing of materials to form Nano-Concrete

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Fig 2.3. Wet Mixing Process

Fig 2.4. Curing of specimen

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 CHAPTER 3. CHARACTERISTICS & PROPERTIES OF
NANO-CONCRETE

3.1 Introduction
The findings of this study underscore the positive impact of incorporating nano-materials into
concrete, leading to significant enhancements in its mechanical properties, particularly in
termsa of compressive and flexural astrength. Notably, the inclusion of nano-silica has
proven to be significantly more effective in improving these properties compared to nano-
calcium carbonate.

The superior performance of nano-silica can be attributed to several factors. First and
foremost, its volcanic ash activity surpasses that of silica fume, leading to a more pronounced
improvement in concrete mechanical properties. Moreover, the introduction of nano-silica
into the mix has the effect of reducing the fluidity of the slurry while substantially shortening
the aggregation time. This dual action results in a more efficient early strength development
in the concrete.

The unique structural and physicochemical characteristics of nano-silica play a pivotal role in
its efficacy. When nano-silica is introduced into the cement, it exhibits a strong affinity for
Ca (OH)2, a common compound in cement. This interaction promotes cement hydration,
enhancing the efficiency of exothermic chemical reactions. As a result, the microstructure of
the cement slurry becomes more uniform and denser.

On the other hand, the incorporation of nano-calcium carbonate operates through a

combination of physical aand chemical effects. It reduces the internal asurface area of the
cement matrix, which accelerates the early hydration of clinker particles, reduces porosity,
and ultimately increases the density of the cement matrix. These alterations collectively
contribute to an improvement in the compressivea strength of the cement.

In summary, study highlights potential of nano-materials, particularly nano-silica, to

substantially enhance the mechanical properties of concrete. The choice between these
materials depends on the specific goals and requirements of the concrete application, as each

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type of nano-material offers unique advantages and influences different aspects of concrete
performance.

A comprehensive comparative analysis of nano-materials in concrete was conducted by

Fangliang Cao and his colleagues. The experiments were categorised into three groups:
concrete without the addition of nano-materials, aconcrete with nano-silica, and concrete with
nano-calcium-carbonate. The results of these experiments revealed a notable enhancement in
the compressive astrength of concrete facilitated by the incorporation of nano-materials.

Li-Guhua and the research team undertook few series of aexperiments to delve into
performance of nano-concrete systems. Their investigations revealed a substantial boost in
the early strength of concrete upon introducing nano-materials, with the most substantial
enhancements manifesting within the initial 7-day period. It was also observed that
employing 5% nano-silica yielded more effective results in bolstering strength compared to a
3% nano-silica mixture. However, the connection between the quantity of nano-silica and its
impact on concrete strength did not adhere to a linear relationship. In some instances, a 3%
nano-silica blend proved more advantageous for enhancing late-stage concrete strength.

In a parallel study conducted by TANG Xiao-ping and WEI Xiu-ying, nano silica and di
chloro chloride were introduced, and the results were compared to the incorporation of three
distinct nano-material types. The findings underscored a substantial enhancement in concrete
compressive strength at various time intervals, including the 3-day, 7-day, and 28-day marks,
with increments of 20%, 15%, and 10%, respectively. These collective outcomes underline
the considerable potential of nano-materials in augmenting the mechanical properties and
overall performance of concrete across varying timeframes.

Scientists hailing from the United States and various other nations traditionally employ the
Vicat method needle to ascertain the setting duration in their experiments. Depending on the
concrete variant under examination, the preliminary setting window spans roughly 4 to 7
hours, while the ultimate setting stage encompasses around 6 to 10 hours. In contrast, the
introduction of nano-SiO2 into the concrete led to a notable reduction in the requisite time for
solidification. Correspondingly, Ltifi et al. identified a similar trend. The degradation of
concrete initiated by the leaching of calcium into water can be effectively halted by the
inclusion of nano-silica within the concrete mixture. This innovative strategy exhibits

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significant promise in preserving the structural integrity of concrete compositions exposed to
potentially deleterious calcium seepage.

Numerous authors have proposed that the incorporation of nano-silica into cement-based
materials leads to a notable augmentation in the required water content for formulating
asphalt mixes .This phenomenon is believed to be attributed to the substantial specific surface
area of silica nanoparticles, resulting in their tendency to aggregate. The formation of these
aggregates is thought to be the root cause of this observed effect.

In scenarios where these aggregates are all relatively small and function as fillers, occupying
the interstitial spaces between cement particles, there exists the theoretical potential for nano-
silica to enhance the fluidity of the paste. Nevertheless, the extent of this improvement is
contingent upon the size of the aggregates. On the other hand, a higher prevalence of larger
nano-silica aggregates typically has the opposite effect. Such larger aggregates tend to repel
cement particles, creating additional void spaces. Moreover, exceptionally large nano-silica
aggregates have the capacity to absorb a portion of the free water initially contributing to the
paste's fluidity .Regrettably, this trapped water cannot contribute to the overall flowability, as
it remains confined within the pores of the aggregates.

Consequently, this has a direct impact on the mixture, causing both torque and viscosity to
increase, resulting in a significant deterioration of the workability of the cement paste. This
adverse effect on workability underscores the importance of carefully managing the size and
distribution of nano-silica aggregates in cement-based materials.

The decrease in the flowability of cementitious materials due to the inclusion of nano-silica
can be assessed by employing the concept of the slump value. Berra and colleagues propose
that by using a relatively low percentage of superplasticizers, the slump can be adjusted to a
more manageable and acceptable level. The amount of flow agent required depends on both
the quantity of incorporated nano-silica and the surface area of these particles.

The slump value is a crucial indicator for evaluating the fluidity of concrete. It represents the
average diameter of concrete once it has been allowed to settle within a standard slump cone.
Research findings indicate that nano-silica-modified concrete typically exhibits a slump value

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ranging from 80 mm to 100 mm. This is 40 to 60 percent lower than the slump value
observed in conventional concrete.

During setting tests, it was observed that freshly mixed concrete containing nano-SiO2
released minimal moisture. When cement was replaced with nano-SiO2, the material's high
reactivity, owing to its extensive surface area and numerous unsaturated bonds, made it
readily attract water molecules in its vicinity, forming chemical bonds. Consequently, there
were no instances of water segregation or visible exudation from the nano-SiO2-containing
mixture.

The loss of water often leads to shrinkage in cement joints, which, in turn, results in the
formation of cracks and weakens the adhesion between aggregates. Wang et al.'s research
found that the inclusion of nano-SiO2 notably enhanced the shrinkage characteristics of
lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC), particularly the subsequent shrinkage. Li et al.
investigated the extent of shrinkage in different cement pastes and observed an increase in
cement shrinkage as the setting time of the cement increased. After 28 days, cement paste
experienced shrinkage ranging from 0.28% to 0.70%.

Further research on woven carbon fiber/epoxy composites revealed a significant finding:

carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibited an inhibitory effect on the formation of transverse cracks,
thus providing valuable insights into damage progression in composite materials.

3.2 Permeability of Nano-Concrete

Nano-silica offers a multitude of advantages, primarily contributing to the improvement of
concrete's internal structure and overall properties. This remarkable material serves to fill the
internal voids within the concrete matrix, enhancing its density while bolstering its resistance
to cracking, frost, impermeability, and overall durability.

In an experiment conducted by Han Li and their team, standard concrete samples were
subjected to a 24-hour soaking in a sodium chloride solution and subsequently underwent
drying tests, a process repeated 10 timesa. The chloride-ion content within concrete was
analysed, revealing that concrete with nano-silica content at 0.5%, 1%, and 2.0% had chloride
ion contents measuring 92.7%, 92.3%, and 91.9%, respectively, at a depth of 2.5 metres. This

21
investigation exemplified the anti-chloride ion properties of nano-silica, showcasing its
effectiveness.

Similarly, Chengming Lan conducted an anti-chloride ion test, yielding experimental results
that closely mirrored the findings of the previous study. The parallel outcomes underscored
the efficacy of nano-silica in enhancing the resistance of concrete to chloride ion penetration,
which is instrumental in preventing degradation and enhancing the overall longevity of
concrete structures. In essence, the applications of nano-silica extend beyond addressing
cracking and permeability issues to offering comprehensive benefits for concrete's durability
and long-term performance.

3.3 Nano Concrete Frost Resistance

The resistance of concrete to frost is a critical factor in determining its long-term durability.
The cyclic process of freezing and thawing poses a significant challenge, making it
imperative to address this aspect for the sake of building structure safety and performance.
The mechanical properties of concrete are intrinsically linked to its strength, further
emphasising the need to fortify its frost resistance.

Upon subjecting M7.5 specimens to freezing and thawing cycles, it became evident that the
addition of nanomaterials had a profound impact on the internal molecular structure of the
concrete. Notably, inclusion of nanomaterials led to a substantial enhancement of this
internal structure, effectively eliminating 150mm-sized pores from within the concrete. This
transformation significantly increased the concrete's internal density, thus preventing
structural damage associated with hydrostatic and osmotic pressure theories.

A comparable study conducted by Xiaolin Ren and Shunkai Li involved 25 cycles of freeze-
thaw testing at -10°C. The results demonstrated that concrete incorporating 0.75%
nanomaterial exhibited a mere 3.2% reduction in strength, whereas the reference concrete
suffered an 8.6% loss. This highlights the substantial improvement in concrete's frost
resistance achieved through the integration of nanomaterials.

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 SUMMARY

Nanotechnology presents an exciting realm of possibilities, offering substantial advancements

that go beyond the incremental improvements typical in construction engineering. Rather
than being an entirely novel technology, nanotechnology is an extension of existing ones,
pushing the boundaries to a new scale where conventional tools and practices no longer hold
sway. It's essentially an inversion of the conventional top-down construction process,
enabling us to design materials from the molecular level up to create a superior built
environment.

Yet, while nanotechnology holds enormous potential in terms of both economics and
technology, it's not without its challenges. Practical applications of these advances remain
years away, primarily due to the construction industry's conservative and fragmented nature.
High costs associated with nanotechnology and legitimate concerns about environmental and
health effects are major roadblocks to its widespread use. As a result, the transformative
effects of nanoscale innovations are likely to reverberate widely, particularly in the
construction sector, which carries significant economic and social weight.

Three key obstacles currently hinder the broader integration of nanotechnology in

construction. First, there's a lack of visionary foresight to pinpoint the aspects of construction
that could benefit from nanotechnology. Second, a shortage of skilled personnel with
expertise in nanotechnology poses a significant challenge. Finally, the required level of
investment to support nanotechnological advancements in construction remains a critical
hurdle.

Nonetheless, the potential of nano-technology in elevating the performance aof concrete and
nurturing the growth of inventive, environmentally responsible, and cutting-edge composites
based on cement is indisputable. These composites present distinct mechanical, thermal, and
electrical characteristics, opening up a realm of opportunities in the years to come.

23
 REFERENCES

1. Wei Li ; Linkai Xiao; Xiaochu Wang; Yi Ran “A Review of Mechanical Properties

and Durability of Nano-concrete” Shenyang University, China.
2. Perumalsamy Balaguru and Ken Chong “NANOTECHNOLOGY AND CONCRETE:
RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES”, National Science Foundation, USA.
3. Paschal Chimeremeze Chiadighikaobi; Qais Abdulrahman Ali Qais; Muritala
Adedapo Adegoke; Vladimir Jean Paul; Lina Abass Saad; Roaa Hilmi Kadhim Al-
Brees and Babatunde Adegoke Obende “A Review Study of the Mechanical
Characteristics of Nano Concrete Reinforced with Hybrid Fiber”
4. PriyankaDutta, Dr. Biman Mukherjee “Nano Concrete: A Review”
5. Syed Nooruddin, Syed Shah Maqdoom Hussaini, Syed Umair, Akshay Belgar, Prof.
Sujeet Patil “Strength of Nano Concrete using Nano Silica”

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