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@article{183118,
        author = {Alok Raj and Narendra Dudhe},
        title = {A Comprehensive Study on the Role of Nano-Silica in  Enhancing the Mechanical and Durability Properties  of Concrete},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {3},
        pages = {442-456},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=183118},
        abstract = {Concrete's exceptional compressive strength, adaptability, and worldwide availability make it the most widely used building material. Despite its extensive use, the environmental impact of Portland cement has increased along with its rising demand as a binder in concrete. Cement production consumes approximately 1.5 kilowatt-hours of energy per kilogram and emits roughly 1 kilogram of carbon dioxide, accounting for around 7% of global carbon dioxide emissions. A significant challenge in modern construction is increasing concrete strength without compromising sustainability. One potential solution is to add Nano-silica, which can enhance microstructure density, exhibit strong pozzolanic reactivity, and consist of microscopic particles, as a partial replacement for cement. This thesis examines the effects of adding Nano- silica to M 30 grade concrete at rates from 0 to 5 percent. The mechanical and durability properties of the material are assessed with the addition. The experimental analysis includes tests for compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, water absorption, and durability against acid attack, sulfate attack, and chloride penetration. Following standard procedures, concrete samples were cured for 7, 14, and 28 days before testing. Notable improvements in all mechanical properties were observed with the incorporation of Nano-silica. It was found that the compressive strength of M30-grade concrete increased by 13%. 13.95% and M 40 grade concrete by 16. 16.82% after 28 days of curing with 3% Nano-silica, by weight, replacing part of the cement in the control mix. “The flexural strength was boosted by about 27 percent, and the split tensile strength by 16 percent. 16.10 percent. These benefits are attributed to the pozzolanic interaction between Nano-silica and calcium hydroxide, which enhances the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H), strengthens the interfacial transition zone (ITZ), and improves particle packing. The addition of Nano-silica between 2% and 3% of the cement weight was found to be optimal, providing the right balance between strength increase, durability, and workability. Increased dosages resulted in particle agglomeration, causing slightly lower performance. Based on the findings, Nano-silica may improve concrete's performance and lessen the environmental impact of building materials, making it a more sustainable and effective alternative to cement. To meet future demands for infrastructure, the study provides valuable insights into creating sustainable, long-lasting, and high-performance concrete.},
        keywords = {Nano Silica, Building Material, Compressive Strength, Nanomaterials, Nanotubes, Nanostructured materials. Polycarboxylate Ether (PCE), Flexible Strength, Split Tensile Strength Author Name, (Year), Paper Title. International Journal of Innovative Science and Research Technology, x(y), a-b. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12345678},
        month = {July},
        }