Review: Effects of nanoparticles in cementitious construction materials at ambient and high temperatures

Nanotechnology is a growing field of application by the use of particles at the nanoscale. The application of extremely small particles based on identical grain-size particles can result in materials with enhanced properties. Studies have been carried out on cement-based materials and showed their advantages regarding their rheological, mechanical and durability characteristics. This paper presents a collection of the state-of-the-art on the recent progress of using different nanoparticles in cementitious materials both for structural purposes and for fire protection construction materials succinctly. Therefore, the findings of the current state of knowledge on this topic are summarised and discussed. Limitations and recommendations are also underlined for future research. Based on recent research works it is clear that the strength level, porosity, mix composition and type, water content, specimen geometry, nano size scale, nanoparticle type, nanoparticle content, the combination of nanoparticles and material age take a crucial role in the physical properties of cementitious materials modified with nanoparticles. It is recommended that different sizes of nanoparticles should be used in such materials as well as polypropylene fibres when subjected to high temperatures. The content of nanoparticles in such materials should be also lower for fire applications than for only ambient temperature purposes. Additionally, there is still an absence of knowledge and comprehension of the response of such materials under high temperatures, which highlights the urgent need for further research into this topic.

Automated summary

This paper summarizes the application of nanotechnology in cementitious materials and highlights the importance of nanoparticles in improving the physical properties of cement. It is recommended to use different sizes of nanoparticles and polypropylene fibers under high temperatures, while emphasizing the urgent need for further research on the response of such materials at high temperatures.