Experimental study of the effect of nano-silica on the mechanical properties and durability of self-compacting concrete placed in chloride environments

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is known for its outstanding characteristics such as superior mechanical and durability properties. Corrosion of rebar due to penetration of chloride ions in the reinforced concrete elements is of particular importance. Therefore, this issue in the SCC must be investigated. Pozzolanic materials could be used in the SCC to increase the resistance of concrete against chlorine ion penetration. In this research, effects of pozzolanic materials including micro silica, nano silica, fly ash, rice husk ash, as well as limestone powder on the mechanical and durability characteristics of self-compacting concrete placed in chloride environment have been studied. The results show that nano-silica increases the mechanical and durability characteristics of self-compacting concrete. Moreover, the SCC containing combination of nano-silica and pozzolanic materials has better properties than the one containing nano-silica.