Enhancements and Mechanisms of Nano Alumina (Al2O3) on Wear Resistance and Microstructure Characteristics of Concrete Pavement

Abstract

Nano materials are being used in concrete technology to enhance performance grade sustainably of construction field works like rigid highway pavement. Nano materials like Nano Al2O3 are used as admixture for the cementitious materials to improve the mechanical and durability properties related to the physio-chemical reactions. The overall objective of this research is to evaluate the effects of Nano Al2O3 addition on the abrasion durability response of concrete pavement. These investigations are conducted to study different Nano Al2O3 contents (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2%) by weight of cement on the concrete strength and abrasion resistance by using the manufactured calibrated rotary cutter device for evaluation process and microstructure analysis by Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) tests. The compressive strength was tested at 28 days of curing and the results showed that the compressive strength of concrete increases up to 36% at 28 days by addition of 1% nano-alumina as a replacement of cement; Optimal content (1% by weight of cement) is found that appears better abrasion, durability abrasion performance and at the same time, achieves the main requirement of concrete highway pavement (strength and workability).