Experimental Investigation on Concrete with Nano Silica and Polyvinyl Alcohol Fiber

Abstract

This experimental study investigates the combined effect of Nano Silica (NS) and Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) fiber in M30 grade concrete. Nano Silica owing to its ultrafine particle size and high pozzolanic reactivity acts as a micro-filler and accelerates the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) gel thereby refining the pore structure and improving compressive strength. PVA fibers with their high tensile strength and excellent bonding properties, bridge micro-cracks and enhance ductility and toughness of the concrete matrix. In this study Nano Silica was used as a partial replacement for cement at 1%, 2%, and 3% by weight, while PVA fiber was added as 0.5% by volume of concrete. The specimens were tested for compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength at 7 and 28 days of curing.