Evaluation of freeze/thaw and scaling response of nanoconcrete for Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) pavements

•Nanomaterials in PCC can increase the compressive strength and paste density.•Nanomaterials can improve the durability of PCC in freeze/thaw conditions.•Nanomaterials can improve the scaling response of PCC subject to freeze/thaw.

The durability of PCC refers to the ability of concrete to resist weathering action, chemical attack and abrasion. Freeze/thaw and scaling are extreme conditions that occur in cold climates and with the use of deicers that can affect the durability of concrete. Nanomaterials, which have a particle size under 100 nm and a large specific surface area, are able to improve the durability of concrete. In this research nanosilica was added to concrete mix, and was found to improve the compressive strength of concrete, paste density, and reduce the external damage of samples subject to freeze/thaw cycles.