“A Review on Classification and Effect of Nanoparticles on Workability, Mechanical Properties, Durability, and Microstructure of Cement Composites”

The escalating concern over carbon dioxide emissions from rapid development in multiple countries worldwide highlights the urgent need for sustainable growth. To address these challenges, nanomaterials have emerged as pivotal tools in the construction sector, contributing significantly to achieving sustainability goals. The review study provides a comprehensive analysis of the classification of nanoparticles based on their chemical composition. The study also investigates the influence of nanomaterials, including nano iron, silica, calcium carbonate, zinc oxide, clay, zirconium, graphene oxide, and carbon nanotubes, on workability, mechanical strength, durability, and microscopic characteristics of different cement mixtures. The study demonstrated a reduction in the workability of cement composites when treated with various nanoparticles, as indicated by a reduction in slump value and v-funnel flow time. The phenomenon can be explained by the large surface area of the nanoparticles, which absorb a huge amount of water and decrease the composites' workability. Scientists have determined that incorporating various nanoparticles into concrete enhances its mechanical properties (including compressive, flexural, and tensile strength), durability (such as porosity, water sorptivity, chloride ion penetration, etc.), and micro structural characteristics to varying extents. The observed effects can be elucidated by the existence of nanoparticles, which occupy the minuscule pores in the matrix. As a result, the packing density of cement composites increases and the microstructure becomes more refined. This review study offers a comprehensive overview of the impacts of various nanoparticles on different cement composites, emphasizing their distinct contributions to enhancing different properties. Furthermore, it establishes a foundation for forthcoming progress in this particular domain.