Effect of Novel Synthesized Nanoeggshell on the Properties of Cementitious Composites

Abstract

In this study, a novel synthesized form of nanoeggshell is introduced and its use in cementitious composites is proposed as a green, safe and low-cost additive. The nanoeggshell was characterized using FTIR, SEM, BET and viscometer techniques and results showed that the ultrasonic effect was a major factor for the structure of synthesized hierarchical 3D flower-like nanoeggshell. The intrinsic viscosity, voluminosity, and shape factor of nanoeggshell were calculated to understand rheological properties of the structure. Different error functions were used to find the optimum. Regarding the effect of the novel 3D flower-like nanoeggshell on the mechanical properties of mortar, four different cement mortar mixtures were prepared with varying percentages of nanoeggshell (0%, 0.1%, 0.5% and 1%). It is concluded that compressive strength of the mixtures increased with the increasing amount of nanoeggshell additive. Additionally, flexural strain capacity was improved with the additive due to bridging effect in the cement matrix, thus induced higher ductility. In addition, better workability was noted in the mixtures with nanoeggshell. As a result, the introduced 3D flower-like nanoeggshell is a novel potential nanomaterial that can be used as an effective additive for improving the mechanical properties of cementitious composites.