Nano Alumina Based High Strength Concrete

Abstract

Very recently, the world of nano technology has initiated to fabricate new materials owing to the demand for their use in enhancing the properties of different materials in general and, materials used in the construction industry in particular. In this study, the results of an exhaustive experimental analysis, on the use of nano alumina with cement powder to enhance the grade and strength of concrete has been undertaken. The influence of the nano alumina in concrete with different proportions has been studied to assess mechanical properties of concrete with reference to normal concrete. The test results indicate that the use of nano alumina in concrete has enhanced the mechanical properties of hardened concrete. This nano alumina based high strength concrete (HSC) has an enhanced compressive strength of 64.17 N/mm2 (MPa) after 28 days, which is a significant improvement over normal concrete. All the mixes having nano alumina in different proportions gave better results as compared to normal conventional concrete mix. The Rebound Hammer, Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity, SEM and TEM analysis further validate the above findings.