Use of nanotechnology in concrete

Nanoparticles infused concrete also known as nano concrete has been an unindustrialized area of research that is yet to be commercialized. These exorbitant materials are still in progress of having their prices reduced through different sustainable production to get their way into the concrete industry as sustainable, durable and economical material. In contrast, nano CaCO3, a widely used material in pharmaceutical and different other industry, is one of the cheapest nanomaterials that could be used in construction industry. This study consists of preliminary analysis to understand the behavior of concrete infused with nano CaCO3. Ordinary concrete and fly ash concrete was mixed with 1% and 3% nano calcium carbonate. Workability, setting time and calorimeter test were conducted to understand the change in the behavior of fresh concrete. Similarly, compressive strength, elastic modulus and shrinkage ring test were conducted on hardened concrete. Results indicated an enormous increase in the rate of hydration and early strength after addition of nano CaCO3. However, a decrease in heat of hydration and elastic modulus was observed with the addition of nano calcium carbonate. This unique property makes nano concrete more crack resistant which was observed through shrinkage ring test.