Thermal and mechanical characteristics of cement nanocomposites

Abstract

Widespread applications and advantages of different types of composite materials have drawn researchers ' attention toward the science and techno logy of composites. Among these materials, cementitious composites have a special place, as they have many applications in various fields of structural and civil engineering. Due to the importance of cementitious composites and their behavior, investigation of their properties is of great importance. Thus in the present study, thermal and mechanical properties of the self-compacting cementitious composites containing different fractions of nano TiO2 have been investigated. Mechanical properties were assessed through compressive, split tensile and flexural tests. The thermal properties were assessed through thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and conduction calorimetry tests. Accelerated peak appearance in conduction calorimetry tests and more weight loss in thermogravimetric analysis could indicate that TiO2 nanoparticles could lead to strength development at earlier ages and improve the properties of the self-compacting cementitious composites.