Investigation on effect of colloidal nano-silica on the strength and durability characteristics of red mud blended Portland cement paste through tortuosity

A novel binder system for cement-based composites depending upon the strength and durability characteristics is introduced in this study. The possibility of calcined red mud cement pastes with without colloidal nano-silica (CNS) over Ordinary Portland Cement paste (OPC) at three W/B ratios (0.3, 0.4, 0.5) evaluated. optimum percentage replacement by (15%) was selected from compressive values different replacements (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%). Colloidal added 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2 % to paste. Water absorption, sorptivity, resistance sulfate attack, acid attack tests were conducted CNS. experimental results are explained based on tortuosity empirical formulas mathematical models pore network distribution. directly proportional inter-connectivity pores. mixes 15% 1.5% CNS performed better all ratios. mix (R15NS1.5) minimum value higher overall performance a 0.3 ratio give high-performance compared