The assessment of nanosilica influence on selected cement composites properties with different plasticizers

At world-wide production over 30 billion of tones, concrete is one of the most popular construction materials, at the same time the amount of carbon dioxide derived from cement industry is estimated to 5-7% of world annual CO2 emissions. By enhancing concrete’s properties, the application of nanoparticles to cement composites production could diminish the carbon footprint of the industry. Nanosilica is researched with an aim to enhance mechanical properties and durability of concrete. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of nano-silica on compressive strength, density and water absorption of cement paste with an addition of two plasticizers with different chemical base. The consistency of fresh cement paste with plasticizers was measured. The dosage of nano-silica was 1%, 2% or 3% of binder mass. The addition of nano-silica severely reduced the consistency of cement paste. The enhancement of early compressive strength was observable.