Journals Proceedings

Abstract

Recently, Nano particles have been gaining increasing attention in many fields to fabricate new materials with novel functions due to their unique physical and chemical properties. It has been found that physical properties of mortar, particularly strength and permeability significantly depend on its pore structure. Ultra-fine particles of Nano composites provide more homogenous distribution of hydrated products of concrete. This effect of micro and Nano particles enhances the durability of cement composites as well as the strength. In the present investigation, micro level materials such as Rice husk Ash (RHA) and Marble powder as a replacement of cement and Manufactured sand (M-Sand) quarry dust as a replacement of fine aggregate have been studied. In addition, influence of Nano particles on different properties of cement mortar was investigated with Rice husk ash as a well-known active pozzolano. Nano particles such as Al2O3, Fe2O3 of different percentage (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%) by weight of cement was replaced and their influence on Mechanical properties, chloride permeability, porosity, and corrosion resistant properties of the specimens were determined. Further, the grain structures were examined through Scanning Electron Microscopy. From the results it was found that the addition of Nano and Micro particles improved the split and compressive strength, reduced the porosity and permeability leads to homogenous and compact microstructure and hence enhanced the durability.