Effect of Hydrogels Containing Nanosilica on the Properties of Cement Pastes

The effect of hydrogels containing nanosilica (NSi) on the autogenous shrinkage, mechanical strength, and electrical resistivity cement pastes was studied. interaction between surrounding cementitious matrix examined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). addition decreased shrinkage in this reduction showed a dependence concentration NSi hydrogels. Compressive strength were reduced with increased hydrogel. A change phase composition paste region close to hydrogel noted, compared away from In lime solution pH temperature, Ca(OH)2 CaCO3 found form within hydrogels; evidence calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) formation obtained, indicating possible pozzolanic potential NSi.