Advances in the Mechanism and Application of Nanoparticles in Concrete Property Modification
Huaming Li, Yuhan Zhao, Yuhan Zhao, Yan Zhao, Yan Zhao, Min Zhang, Yanan Niu, Xi Cao
Abstract
Nanoparticles leverage their unique nanoscale effects to optimize concrete performance through synergistic multi-mechanism interactions. Core mechanisms include micro-filling effects (graded pore filling, optimized pore structure), nucleation (promoting crystallization of hydration products, refining microstructure), chemical reactivity (e.g., pozzolanic reaction of nano-SiO2, enhancing interfacial transition zones), and interfacial strengthening (improving ITZ structure and stress transfer). Common nanomaterials (e.g., nano-SiO2, Al2O3, carbon nanotubes) significantly enhance concrete’s mechanical properties, durability, and functionalities (e.g., self-sensing, electromagnetic shielding). However, nano-modified concrete still faces challenges such as poor dispersion, high cost, and environmental/health risks. Future efforts should focus on multi-scale mechanism research, green low-cost synthesis processes, and intelligent composite systems development to advance the engineering applications pf nano-modified concrete.