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Project Leader
Laila Raki
Phone: 613-991-2612
Fax: 613-954-5984
Email: Laila.Raki@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Cement-Based Nanocomposites
Objectives
Nanostructural modification of calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H) as a means to develop advanced and sustainable cement-based materials
Background
The engineering properties of concrete are governed by the physical and chemical characteristics of its ingredients and therefore are closely related to the behaviour and response to phenomena of its components at the micro and nano levels. Therefore, nanomodification of cement and its hydrates holds the promise of greatly enhanced concrete properties. In addition, the use of admixtures in modern concretes, dictated by the production of special concretes for particular applications, is a common practice. A better understanding of the type of interactions between these admixtures and C-S-H at the nano level could provide new insights to concrete materials performance at the micro and macro levels.
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) image of a calcium silicate hydrate polymer nanocomposite
Statement of Work
The current work uses several advanced analytical methods to tailor cement-based materials to achieve enhanced durability and engineering properties:
- Modify C-S-H with chemical admixtures
- Explore the chemical and physical properties of C-S-H nanocomposites
- Study the volume stability of C-S-H exposed to aggressive media
- Develop new materials to extend service-life in aggressive environments
Expected Outcomes
This project should eventually lead to the development of novel methods and tools for tailoring the nature of cement-based materials for use in the construction industry. The goal is to produce concrete materials engineered at the nano level that exhibit enhanced performance and durability in order to address sustainability issues in the construction sector. Other applications for cement-based nanocomposites may also evolve in non-traditional fields such as corrosion-resistant rebar coating and fire retardant materials. This will lead to new routes towards development of advanced and sustainable cement-based materials
Start/Expected Completion Dates
This project started in 2004 and will continue for several years.
