Use of nano-silica in cement based materials--A review.

The research nowadays is mainly focusing on the basic science of cementitious material at nano/atomic level. Further, researchers are continuing to improve the durability and sustainability of concrete and have realized significant increment in mechanical properties of cementitious materials by incorporating nano-silica. The review paper summarizes the effect of nano-silica addition on mechanical, durability and microstructure characteristics of paste, mortar and concrete. It provides the current development of application of nano-silica in paste, mortar and concrete. Finally, the future trend/potential and implication of nanosilica in cement-based materials is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]