Mechanical, electrical and microstructural studies on nano-TiO2 admixtured cement mortar cured with industrial wastewater

Abstract

Nanotechnology has attracted the attention of buildingmaterials over the last decade.Nano-size particles-cementmortar-can positively alter their early and hardened properties. The objective of this study is the inclusion ofTiO2 nanoparticles (NT) as an admixture (2 to 10%by weight of the cement) on themechanical, electrical, andmicrostructure properties of cementmortar composites and cured with industrial wastewater.Nowadays, the analysis of TiO2 nanoparticles in concrete has been recognized increasingly.Nevertheless, there has been no report of the durability problems on nano-TiO2 admixtured cementmortar curedwith industrialwastewater. To achieve this purpose, compressive strength, porosity, electrical resistance, rapid chloride penetration test, and scanning electron micrograph (SEM) were performed to find out the relationship between themechanical,microstructure, and electrical properties ofNTmortar composites. The test results showed that TiO2 nanoparticles treatedwith industrialwastewater improve early-age hydration. For increasing replacement percentages of TiO2, the setting time is reduced due to the substitution of TiO2, despite declining cement content, which again indicates accelerated hydration.However,whenNTandwastewaterweremixed, porositytest results indicated significant improvements inmicrostructure, resulting in the development of a more compact and durable hardened structure.Consequently, the combination ofNTandwastewater cure has resulted in the development ofmortar strength and durability. Eventually, 10%NTseems to be a decent substitute for economic efficiency and hardened properties.