Modification of cement-based materials with nanoparticles

This is a summary paper on the work being done at the Center for Advanced Cement-Based Materials at Northwestern University on the modification of cement-based materials with nanoparticles, specifically nanoclays, calcium carbonate nanoparticles, and nanosilica. The rheological properties of clay-modified cement-based materials are investigated to understand the influence of nanoclays on thixotropy. The influence of the method of dispersion of calcium carbonate nanoparticles on rate of hydration, setting, and compressive strength are evaluated. And an in-depth study on the mechanisms underlying the influence of nanosilica on the compressive strength gain of fly ash–cement systems is discussed. The motivation behind these studies is that with proper processing techniques and fundamental understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effect of the nanoparticles, they can be used to enhance the fresh-state and hardened properties of cement-based materials for various applications. Nanoclays can increase the green strength of self-consolidating concrete for reduced formwork pressure and slipform paving. Calcium carbonate nanoparticles and nanosilica can offset the negative effects of fly ash on early-age properties to facilitate the development of a more environmentally friendly, high-volume fly ash concrete.