An experimental investigation on the effects of nano Zro2 particles on workability and mechanical properties of ultra high performance concrete.

In the present research work, the slump, compressive strength, flexural strength, split tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, ultrasonic pulse velocity, density and water absorption of Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) with different percentage of nano ZrO2 particles has been investigated. The cement was replaced by nano ZrO2 particles at 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 % and 5 % by weight. Results of this research work clearly show that 3% nano ZrO2 was optimum. It reduces the workability and the mechanical performance of UHPC due to its smaller size, higher Specific surface area and high pozzolanic reactivity of nanoZrO2 particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]