Characterization of high strength mortars with nano Titania at elevated temperatures

• The work studies high strength mortars with nano Titania at elevated temperatures.
• Nano Titania improved mechanical properties of mortars at room temperature.
• Nano Titania increased hydration rate and densified microstructure of mortars.
• Nano Titania improved residual compressive strength of mortars up to 400 °C.
• Nano Titania slightly decreased permeability of mortar at temperatures up to 300 °C.

This study focused on the chemical composition, microstructural changes and residual mechanical properties of high strength mortars with presence of 1%, 2% and 3% nano Titania at elevated temperatures. XRD, SEM and gas permeability tests were conducted to investigate the chemical composition and microstructural changes of mortars after being exposed to elevated temperatures up to 1000 °C. The residual compressive strength, energy absorption per unit volume and relative elastic modulus were also obtained. Addition of nano Titania increased residual compressive strength up to 14% and enhanced elastic modulus and energy absorption of mortars at temperatures up to 600 °C.