Effect of modified nano-silica on the performance of cement mortar.

Nano-silica has great potential in cement-based composites, but the agglomeration of nano particles in cement-based materials limits its development. A series of modified nano-silica were synthesized by grafting isobutylene alcohol poly-oxyethylene ether (TPEG) on to the surface of nano silica modified by silane coupling agent. The results show that the nano-silica modified by TPEG has better dispersibility and stability in an alkaline environment. In addition, compared with nano-silica, modified silica can make the cement hydration process controllable and improve the physical and mechanical properties of the mortar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]