Hybrid Effect of Nano Silica and Metakaolin on Mechanical Properties of Cement Mortar

Abstract

In this work, metakaolin (MK) and nano silica have been used as cementitious matrices in micro and nano scale. The mechanical behavior of these Concrete is widely used construction material for the development of built environment which consumes huge amount of cement, around 4.3 billion metric ton all over the world. Reinforced concrete construction exposed to harsh environment such as chloride bound air causes deterioration in concrete through its pore structure by corroding the steel bar. The use of pozzolanic material i.e. metakaolin (MK), and nano silica (NS) can be used as partially cement replacing material which not only reduces the pores in cement mortar but improves the mechanical properties and microstructure of cement mortar. This paper discuss effect of using MK and NS on cement mortar properties and incorporation of MK and NS in concrete and their effects on concrete mechanical properties. However, the research work provides an extended approach to evaluate combine effect using MK, and NS and to produce a cement mortar with more refined pore structure.