Influence of Fe2O3 Nanoparticles on the Characteristics of Waste Marble Powder Mixed Cement Mortars

Abstract

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.