Computer Science editorial
Open AccessOA2023
Strength Properties and Electrical Resistivity of Nano-Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Modified Lightweight Foamed Concrete
This study investigates the effect of nano-titanium dioxide (TNP) on the slump flow, electrical resistivity, and mechanical strengths of lightweight foamed concrete (LWFC) at 980 kg/m³ density. Results indicate that a 3% TNP weight fraction yields the highest compressive, splitting tensile, and bending strengths.
Afiya Abdul Sattar; Md Azree Othuman Mydin; R. Omar· Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Mechanics· 2023· DOI 10.37934/aram.109.1.103121
The core problem
The construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable building materials to reduce environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity. Lightweight foamed concrete (LWFC) is a versatile material but suffers from drawbacks such as low stiffness, poor toughness, high porosity, significant drying shrinkage, and limited resistance to cracking and deformation. Nanoparticles, particularly titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNP), offer exceptional mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties due to their high specific surface area. Incorporating TNP into concrete could enhance its microstructure and strength. However, the influence of TNP on LWFC has not been previously explored, leaving uncertainty about its effects on strength characteristics. This study aims to fill that gap by examining how TNP affects the slump flow, compressive, splitting tensile, and bending strengths of LWFC with a density of 980 kg/m³.
Innovation
The study considered six TNP weight fractions: 0% (control), 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%. The investigated variables included slump flow, electrical resistivity, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and bending strength. LWFC specimens with a target density of 980 kg/m³ were prepared and tested. The relationship between strength parameters was also analyzed. The experimental program aimed to determine the optimal TNP content for enhancing the mechanical properties of LWFC.
Introduction
The construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable building materials to reduce environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity. Lightweight foamed concrete (LWFC) is a versatile material but suffers from drawbacks such as low stiffness, poor toughness, high porosity, significant drying shrinkage, and limited resistance to cracking and deformation. Nanoparticles, particularly titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNP), offer exceptional mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties due to their high specific surface area. Incorporating TNP into concrete could enhance its microstructure and strength. However, the influence of TNP on LWFC has not been previously explored, leaving uncertainty about its effects on strength characteristics. This study aims to fill that gap by examining how TNP affects the slump flow, compressive, splitting tensile, and bending strengths of LWFC with a density of 980 kg/m³.
Why it matters
The enhancement in strength can be attributed to the high surface area of TNP, which promotes better packing and pozzolanic reactions, leading to a denser microstructure. The optimal 3% TNP content likely balances the benefits of nanoparticle reinforcement with the risk of agglomeration at higher concentrations. The relationship between strength parameters provides insights into the material's behavior under different loading conditions. This study demonstrates the potential of TNP to improve the sustainability and mechanical capabilities of LWFC, contributing to greener construction practices. Further research could explore long-term durability and economic feasibility.
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