ZrO2 nanoparticles' effects on split tensile strength of self compacting concrete

Abstract

In the present study, split tensile strength of self compacting concrete with different amount of ZrO2 nanoparticles has been investigated. ZrO2 nanoparticles with the average particle size of 15 nm were added partially to cement paste (Portland cement together with polycarboxylate superplasticizer) and split tensile strength of the specimens has been measured. The results indicate that ZrO2 nanoparticles are able to improve split tensile strength of concrete and recover the negative effects of polycarboxylate superplasticizer. ZrO2 nanoparticle as a partial replacement of cement up to 4 wt. (%) could accelerate C-S-H gel formation as a result of increased crystalline Ca(OH)2 amount at the early age of hydration. The increased the ZrO2 nanoparticles' content more than 4 wt. (%), causes the reduced the split tensile strength because of unsuitable dispersion of nanoparticles in the concrete matrix.