Utility of Colloidal Nano-silica in Processing of Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites

Abstract

In this study, colloidal nano silica (CNS) was utilized for modifying green state properties of processed cement mortars. Fly ash was used as supplementary cementitious material in the mixtures. Contribution of CNS to mechanical properties of processed composites was also studied. Short fiber reinforced cementitious mixtures were processed by calender extrusion. Influence of CNS due to modification on rheology of fresh paste was determined during processing. Flexural strength tests were carried out on hardened composites. As the main results of the study; using CNS helped to obtain more shape stable fly ash mixtures during processing. Amount of water retaining admixture was decreased due to use of fly ash and CNS simultaneously. Surface quality was much better than the reference cement composite mixture. CNS improved the mechanical properties of processed SFRCC’s including fly ash at 3 days of curing.