The study focused on the investigation of the influence of α-phase nano Al2O3 (NA) and M-sand as a fine aggregate on the partial replacement of cement by micro rice husk ash (MRHA) to enhance the mechanical properties and durability of mortar and achieve an environmentally sustainable material. MRHA was added to the M-sand cement mortar (by partial replacement of cement) at varying concentrations of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight of cement; and NA was added at the rate of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by weight of cement. The results showed that the partial replacement of cement by MRHA (10%) improves the comprehensive and tensile strength by 7% and 6.9%, respectively, compared to the control. Moreover, the incorporation of NA in cement increased the comprehensive and tensile strengths by 15.5% and 41%, respectively. The optimal increment in the combination of MRHA and NA (MN) in the partial replacement of cement resulted in a 26.4% comprehensive strength and a 48.72% tensile strength compared to the control. The flowability of M-sand mortar containing MRHA and NA was observed to vary depending on the degree of dosage and the admixture. Our study concludes that the partial replacement of cement by the admixtures MRHA (10%) and NA (1%) in combination improved the strength and reduced water absorption when compared to the individual effects and control, suggesting the application of MRHA and NA in concrete technology.
Eco-friendly and durability of material has been the focuses of different researches; however, limited are considered both the nanomaterial and byproduct. Therefore, the aimed of this study is to investigate the influence of nano-Fe2O3 (NF) on various properties of cement mortar with marble powder (MP) as supplementary cementitious material (SCM). Fresh and hardened properties of each mix were examined. The microstructure of hydrated blended cement mortars was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray energy-dispersive techniques. The effect was evaluated using flow table, compressive, split tensile, and durability tests. In general, the MP dosage mixes showed increase in water content due to high fineness and NF increased the workability and rate of hydration. The refined pores and enhanced C–S–H gel formation showing better strength with NF than MP. The mechanical properties result compared to control specimens showed that (MP + NF > NF > MP > Control). The optimal value MP and NF in cement mortar's strength and durability is 10% MP and 1% NA. The findings showed that the use of MP and NF in concrete technology as partial replacement of cement is effective and enhance the properties of cementitious composites.
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