International Journal of Recent Innovation in Engineering and Research

Scientific Journal Impact Factor - 3.605 by SJIF

e- ISSN: 2456 – 2084

@IJRIER-All rights Reserved -2017 Page 15

FLEXURAL AND COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF FERROCEMENT

USING COLLOIDAL NANO SILICA

Abhale Bhanudas 1, Kalyani Sarode

2 and Venumadhav Rao

3

1,2 Lecturer, Department of civil , sandip polytechnic College Nashik.

3 HOD, Department of civil sandip polytechnic College of, Nashik.

Abstract-Ferrocement with Nano silica quit very new research area in construction which might be

bring out the salient features of construction, material properties and the special techniques of

applying cement mortar on to the reinforcing mesh and new applications in future. Ferrocement is a

highly versatile construction material with relatively recent origin with high potentials for application

to a variety of structures in the areas of boat building, agriculture, industry and housing.

Ferrocement construction technology is quite popular throughout the world. Ferrocement, a thin

element, is used as a building construction as well as a repair material. This material exhibits a high

degree of elasticity and resistance to cracking and can be made without formwork. On others hand,

Nanotechnology is one of the most active research areas with both novel science and useful

applications that has gradually established itself in the past two decades. Nanotechnology has

changed our vision, expectations and abilities to control the material world Expenditure on

nanotechnology research is significant; however, the research is continuously moving forward

motivated by immediate profitable return generated by high value commercial products. It has been

demonstrated that nanotechnology generated products have many unique characteristics, and can

significantly fix current construction problems, and may change the requirement and organization of

construction process. The regarded research is done for examining the mechanical properties

(flexural strength) of Ferrocement with nano-SiO2 with various variables amount. This thesis brings

out the importance of using ferrocement with nano silica as nano material which may changed our

vision, expectations and abilities to control the material properties and might be the best structural

alternatives for RCC in the future.

Keywords-ferrocement, Nanosilica, chicken mesh, wire mesh, compressive strength, flexural

strength

I. INTRODUCTION

Ferrocement technology in construction Quit different from regular reinforced cement

concrete, Similarly, nanotechnology is also novel science in construction which researched in early

decades in past. soits essential to introduce to contents regarding ferrocement as well as Nano

materials which used in construction. This chapter contents all basics regarding thesis and

requirement of experimental work, all important information’s containing details containing element,

type, advantages and disadvantages of technologies, limitations and other necessary data.

1.1 INTRODUCTION TO FERROCEMENT

Ferrocement is a highly versatile construction material with relatively recent origin with high

potentials for application to a variety of structures in the areas of boat building, agriculture, industry

and housing. This material exhibits a high degree of elasticity andresistance to cracking and can be

made without formwork. Ferrocement has high tensile strength as high as compressive strength and

the width of cracks are very small even at failure. Ferrocement is fire proof, impermeable and

resistant to corrosion and marine borers. It is also resistant to damage from collision and abrasion

against dock walls and other craft. A particular advantage of ferrocement lies in the monolithic

nature, whereas wooden hulls must be rigidly constructed to prevent working and leakage at the

joints, ferrocement has nojoints, therefore no caulking and fastenings to work, loose and cause

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leakage. Thermal properties are very good, this being of particular interest in construction of fish

holds. Ferrocement fish holds are more easily insulated than are timber or steel constructions.

Ferrocement is a thin construction element with thickness in the order of 10-25 mm and uses

rich cement mortar; no coarse aggregate is used and the reinforcement consists of one or more layers

of continuous/ small diameter steel wire/ weld mesh netting. It requires no skilled labor for casting,

and employs only little or no formwork. In ferrocement, cement matrix does not crack since cracking

forces are taken over by wire mesh reinforcement immediately below the surface.Ferrocement

construction technology is being popularized throughout the world in countries like Canada, USA,

Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Mexico, Brazil, the former USSR, Eastern European

countries, China, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and in other developing countries due to its uniqueness

and versality. Ferrocement is being explored as building materials substituting stone, brick, RCC,

steel, prestressed concrete and timber and also as structural components walls, floors, roofs, beams,

columns and slabs, water and soil retaining wall structures; other applications include window and

door frames and shutter.

Fig1: Various types of wire mesh Typical Cross section of ferrocement

1.2 INTRODUCTION TO NANO SILICA

The nanotechnologies can be defined as the design, characterization, production and

application of structures, devices and systems by controlling shape and size at the nanoscale.

Nanotechnology requires advanced imaging techniques for studying and improving the material

behaviour and for designing and producing very fine powders, liquids or solids of materials with

particle size between 1 and 100 nm (1 nm = 10–9

m), known as nanoparticles. The nanomaterials

properties can be very different from the properties of the same materials at micro (10–6 m) or macro

scale (10–6…10–3 m).

Nanotechnology products can be used for design and construction processes in many areas. It

is provided to demonstrate that nanotechnology generated products have many unique

characteristics, and can significantly fix current construction problems, and may change the

requirement

In recent years much research has been done on the application of SiO2 Nano-particles in

cement based materials (such as paste, mortar and concrete). However, little research has been done

on the effect on the durability of concrete using Nano SiO2 particles. This paper examines and

documents applications of The data andinformation collected is from current literature and

researches and focus on nanotechnology basics andapplications of nanotechnology and nonmaterial

in construction areas. The purpose is to point out clear-cutdirection among the nanotechnology

development areas where the construction process wouldimmediately harness nanotechnology, by

specifying clear recommendations. The information would bebeneficial to both construction

engineering education and research.

1.2.1 TYPES OF NANOMATERIAL

i) Nano Silica

ii) Carbon Nanotubes (CNT’s)

iii) Titanium dioxide (TiO2)

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iv) Nano alumina

v) Polycarboxilates

Fig 2:- Structure of Nanoparticles

1.2.2 COLLOIDAL NANO SILICA AS NANO MATERIAL

In recent years much research has been done on the application of SiO2nano-particles in

cement based materials (such as paste, mortar and concrete). However, little research has been done

on the effect on the durability of concrete using nano SiO2 particles. The rate of the pozzolanic

reaction is proportional to the amount of surface area available for reaction. Super fine inorganic

materials including active composite (SiO2, Al2O3, CaO) such as slag, zeolite and coal ash were

proved to be indispensable ingredient of some high-strength cement.

According to some research results, silica fume is valuable for improving mechanical

properties, enhancing freeze–thaw durability, vibration damping capacity, abrasion resistance, bond

strength with steel rebars, chemical attack resistance and corrosion resistance of steel rebar’s.

Furthermore, silica fume decreases the alkali-silica reactivity, the drying shrinkage, permeability,

creep rate and thermal expansion. However, it has not yet been established whether the more rapid

hydration of cement in the presence of nano-silica is due to its chemical reactivity. Nano-SiO2 can

improve the pressure-sensitive properties of cement mortar.

Fig 3 Nano-SiO2 particles under Microscope

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1.3APPLICATIONS OF FERROCEMENT

The salient features of the design, construction, and performance of some of these

applications of ferrocement categorized below.

1.3.1STRUCTURAL APPLICATIONS Ferrocement can be used in various structural members subjected to different type of

stresses. As a compression member, hollow columns with horizontal stiffeners can be cast in

ferrocement. Columns or walls in concrete, RCC, stone or brickwork can be encased in ferrocement

to increase their strength due to confinement. Members subjected to membrane stresses like shells,

domes, pyramids can be cast in ferrocement very easily; and being a homogenous material, full

section of member is utilized in resisting the membrane stresses.

1.3.2ROOFING APPLICATIONS

Ferrocement appears to be an economic alternative material for roofing; and flat or

corrugated roofing system is quite popular. Ferrocement roofing materials can be factory mass-

produced in prefabricated form, a process best suited to the concentrated demands of the urban area,

or it also can be fabricated in-situ in villages. Construction of hundreds of ferrocement roofs for

poorer areas of Mexico has been well The use of ferrocement as roofing for large span structures

with internal ribs has been successful in many European and South American countries.

1.3.3 NEED FOR REPAIR OF RCC STRUCTURES

Some major reasons for the deterioration of RCC structures are cracking due to incorrectly

made construction joints, poor compaction, segregation, poor curing and high water content and

spalling due to corrosion in the reinforcement bars accelerated by a lack of adequate cover. The

cracks in the concrete may be developed due to wrong design of structure or due to poor quality of

materials used, and this will facilitate internal corrosion of steel reinforcement used in RCC

elements; the cracks in course of time deepens up due to increase in corrosion and subsequently,

peeling of concrete cover or spalling of concrete takes place. Use of proper repairing materials and

methods of damaged or deteriorated RCC structures is a necessity not only to serve the intended

service life but also assure the safety of buildings.

1.3.4FERROCEMENT REPAIR TECHNIQUES

A good repair improves the function and performance of structures, restore and increase its

strength and stiffness, enhances the appearance of the concrete surface, provides water tightness and

prevents ingress of the aggressive species to the steel surface durability. Ferrocement repairs and

rehabilitation can be done in RCC structures to increase the strength of columns, beams and slabs

upto 30% as well as contribute towards prevention of crack formation. Ferrocement which can be

made from non-formwork construction processes is an advantage over other types of repair and

strengthening techniques; enhanced crack resistance combined with high toughness, its rapid

constructions with no heavy machinery involved, small additional weight it imposes, and considering

an economical aspect of rehabilitation, this material proves to be a cost effective solution for

rehabilitation and general applications. The ferrocement material is a waterproof system and does not

allow the penetration of water and atmospheric gases. It can totally replace deteriorated/ damaged

RCC chajjas with reduction in dead load.

Some of the eample of ferrocent structure listed below-

A. Tanks containers and silos

B. Marine applications

C. Floors and roofs

D. Elevation treatment

E. Heavy duty floors tiles

F. Fire resistant structures

G. Waterproofing

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H. Ferrocement Pipes

I. Manhole covers

J. Sewer lines

K. Wall cupboards

1.4 APPLICATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY IN CONSTRUCTION

Nanotechnology can be used for design and construction processes in many areas since

nanotechnology generated products have many unique characteristics. These characteristics can,

again, significantly fix current construction problems, and may change the requirement and

organization of construction process.

These include products that are for:

Lighter and stronger structural composites

Low maintenance coating

Improving pipe joining materials and techniques.

Better properties of cementitious materials

Reducing the thermal transfer rate of fire retardant and insulation

Increasing the sound absorption of acoustic absorber

The abbreviated list is not an exhaustive list of applications of nanotechnology in

construction.

1.5 OBJECTIVES OF PROJECT

The main objective of this experimental work is to study the behavior of ferrocement Element

such as cube, panel and beam incorporated with various combinations of colloidal Nano sillica under

flexural loading in which welded square and chicken (Hexagonal) mesh has been used as a

reinforcement .The various parameters considered in this study are as follows -:

a) Effect of various combinations of colloidal Nano silica on the compressive and flexural strength

of ferrocement element.

b) Effect of type of wire mesh on the compressive and flexural strength of ferrocement element.

II. LITERATURE REVIEW

The extensive literature review was carried out by referring standard journals, reference

books and conference proceedings. In recent years, study of flexural strength of ferrocement with

nano material like colloidal nanosillica in mortar and concrete structure is important. Following

literature survey relates to the study of different paper related to improvement of flexural strength off

ferrocement and nanosillica and various aspects of nano material like colloidal nanosillica. In

following papers the study related to the use of admixture as a retarding agent is being done with the

use of nanosillica to improve the mechanical properties of Ferrocement is being studied. The major

work carried out by different researchers is summarized below:

Jumaat U.M.Z., et.al. [ January 2000]: Corresponding paper presents a study of the flexural

behavior of reinforced concrete slabs with ferrocement tension zone cover. The results of tests on 12

simply supported slabs are presented.. Within the range of the variables covered by the present study,

the following conclusions may be drawn: a) the preliminary investigation reported in this study

indicates that ferrocement cover can be successfullyused for reinforced concrete slabs. b) Crack

width of the tested reinforced concrete slabs was considerably narrowed by the use of ferrocement.c)

Specimens with ferrocement cover showed higher stiffness and higher cracking moment than those

with normal concrete cover. [1]

HuiL.,et.al. [March 2003]:

In this paper, The mechanical properties of nano-Fe2O3 and

nano-SiO2 cement mortars were experimentally studied. The experimental results showed that the

compressive and flexural strengths measured at the 7th day and 28th day of the cement mortars

mixed with the nano-particles were higher than that of a plain cement mortar. Therefore, it is feasible

to add nano-particles to improve the mechanical properties of concrete. The SEM study of the

microstructures between the cement mortar mixed with the nano-particles and the plain cement

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mortar showed that the nano-Fe2O3 and nano-SiO2 filled up the pores and reduced CaOH2

compound among the hydrates. These mechanisms explained the supreme mechanical performance

of the cement mortars with nano-particles. [2]

HuiL.,et.al. [March 2003]: He concluded that from his studies, The mechanical properties

and self-monitoring capability of cement mortar containing nano-SiO2 or nano-Fe2O3 were

experimentally studied and compared with that of plain cement paste. The results showed that the

compressive and flexural strengths measured at the 28th

day of cement mortar containing nano-SiO2

or nano-Fe2O3 were both higher than that of plain cement mortar with the same water–binder ratio

(w/b). Furthermore, the self-monitoring capability of cement mortar with nano-Fe2O3 is also

presented in this paper. [3]

Shannag M.J., et.al. [15 June 2006]:The main objective of the study was to investigate the

effects of combining reinforcing steel meshes with discontinuous fibers as reinforcement in thin

mortar specimens. The following variables were investigated (a) number of mesh layers, 2 and 4 (b)

transverse wire spacing, small, medium and large (c) the type of fiber, steel and glass. The following

conclusions can be drawn from this study:(a) Increasing the number of steel mesh layers from 2 to 4

caused a substantial increase in flexural strength and energy absorption to failure.(b) For the same

number of mesh layers, the addition of 2% of brass coated steel fibers to the matrix of ferrocement

led to a significant increase (2.6 times) in flexural strength and up to 3.85 times increase in energy

absorption to failure; compared to the plain matrix without fibers; while the addition of the same

volume of glass fibers to smaller spacing steel meshes led to a Marginal improvement in flexural

strength and up to 2.60 times increase in energy absorption to failure.(c) The addition of

discontinuous fibers to the matrix can be very effective in preventing the spalling of the mortar cover

at ultimate load. [4]

TorgalF.P.,et.al. [July 2010]:We understand from this papers that Nanotechnology has the

potential to be the key to a brand new world in the field of construction and building materials.

Although replication of natural systems is one of the most promising areas of this technology,

scientists are still trying to grasp their astonishing complexities. Nanoscale analysis of Portland

cement hydration products will allow more durable binders but the question related to when that will

happen is not clear. The fact that nanoparticles are not cost-efficient prevents their commercial

applications in a near future. Photocatalytic applications of nanomaterials are already a reality, still

more research efforts are needed in order to find other semiconductors apart from TiO2 and

conductors that can be activated with visible light. Further research is also needed in the field of

nanotoxicity, be there as it may, extreme caution must be used when using nanoparticles. [5]

Pacheco T.F.,et.al. [August 2012]:The literature review about nanoparticles contribution for

HPC shows that:(a) Nanoparticles allows for a dramatic increase in the mechanical strength of

cementitious composites. The mechanisms are as follows:1. They can fill the voids of the CHS

structure leading to a denser concrete. 2. They act as nucleation centers, contributing to the

development of the hydration of Portland cement. 3. They react with Ca(OH)2 crystals producing C–

S–H gel. Besides the nano-particles act as kernels in the cement paste which makes the size of

Ca(OH)2 crystal smaller. (b) The optimal percentage of nanoparticles depends on their type and also

on their average dimension. (c) Further investigations are needed in order to find out which nano-

particles are most effective for enhanced concrete durability. (d) Nano-silica seems to be able to

control calcium leaching. Colloidal dispersions were much more effective reducing the effects of the

degradation than the dry ones. [6]

OltuluM.,et.al.[December 2012]: In this study, addition of both nano-SiO2 (NS), nano-

Al2O3 (NA) and nano-Fe2O3 (NF) powders and their binary and ternary combinations on the

compressive strength and capillary water absorption of cement mortars containing fly ash (FA) were

investigated. Powder amounts were used at ratios corresponding to 0.5 wt%, 1.25 wt% and 2.5 wt%

of the binder for all mixtures. Results show that addition of any single type of oxide powders at

1.25% increased compressive strength of the mortars much further than the other proportions. The

use of NS + NA powders at 1.25% improved the compressive strength by the most compared to the

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control specimen. For all binary powder combinations, the rate of increase in strength reached

generally their peak on the 28th day and gradually decreased through aging. Among all groups, the

best results were obtained from the mortars added with NS + NA + NF powders at 1.25%. For this

particular mortar, 7–32% increase in the compressive strength and 14% decrease in the capillary

absorption were determined relative to the control specimen. Agglomeration formation due to

excessive use of nano powders and their pozzolanic activity should be investigated in detail. The

results were also compared with those obtained from Oltulu[7]

Cheah C.B., et.al. [17 May 2012)]: the research study was performed with the aim to

investigate the effects of the inclusion of HCWA as a supplementary binder material.From the

analysis and interpretation of the results obtained from the study, the following conclusions and

recommendations can be derived. (a) HCWA can be included as a cement replacement material in

silica fume-cement binary cement mortar. The use of HCWA at various levels of cement

replacement up to 6% by total binder weight enhances the bulk density, compressive strength,

flexural strength and Young’s modulus of elasticity of mortar. (b) The Engineer’s Bending theory

based on an uncracked elastic section can be implemented to estimate the first crack load of HCWA

ferrocement panels with acceptable accuracy. (c) The first crack and ultimate failure load of a

ferrocement panel can be significantly enhanced by the inclusion of HCWA in the mortar matrix at

various levels of cement replacement up to 6% by total binder weight. (d) Ductility performance of

ferrocement panels can be enhanced by the use of HCWA in the mortar matrix at a maximum cement

replacement level of 8%. (e) The use of HCWA as a supplementary binder material at maximum

cement replacement level of 4% in the mortar matrix significantly improves the flexural stiffness of

the fabricated ferrocement panels. (f) The compressive strength and strain capacity of a high strength

mortar matrix was not fully utilised for the thin ferrocement panel when subjected to a flexural load

test. (g) The inclusion of HCWA in a mortar matrix at a maximum cement replacement level of 4%

significantly improved the crack resistance of the fabricated ferrocement panels. (h) Enhanced bond

strength between the mortar matrix and an internal steel reinforcement may be achieved with the use

of HCWA in the mortar matrix at a maximum cement replacement level of 6% by total binder

weight. (i) HCWA can be used at a cement replacement level up to 8% in a ferrocement mortar

matrix to ensure an acceptable first crack load, ultimate load capacity, flexural stiffness, ductility and

crack resistance performance. (j) There is a high tendency for thin ferrocement panels to fail in the

pure bending mode upon being subjected to a flexural load. [8]

Sakthivel P.B.et.al. [July 2012]:The authors of this experimental research work have made

an attempt to experimentally investigate the ultimate flexural load of ferrocement slabs of size

700mm. X 200mm. X 15mm. (thickness) reinforced with PVC coated steel weld mesh, and compare

the results with slabs using GI-coated steel weld mesh, by varying the number of layers from 1-3.

Ordinary Portland Cement, locally available river sand and potable water have been used in

preparation of cement mortar, and the sand-cement ratio of 2:1 and water-cement ratio of 0.43 have

been used in accordance with ACI codes. The flexural strength of ferrocement slabs was determined

on four-point loading using a specially fabricated flexure loading frame. The flexural load, maximum

deflection, crack-pattern and crack-width of ferrocement slabs reinforced have been analysed using

varying PVC and GI coated weld mesh layers (1-3). Increasing the number of mesh layers from 1-3

caused a substantial increase in flexural load as well as improvement in ductility behavior of

ferrocement slabs. It was also found that the flexural load of slabs with PVC-coated weld mesh is

90% that of specimens reinforced with GI-coated weld mesh, and therefore, PVC-coated weld mesh

can be effectively used in ferrocement slabs, as non-corrosive reinforcement. The following are the

conclusions drawn from the above study: (a)The flexural loads at first crack and ultimate loads

depend on number of reinforcing mesh layers used in ferrocement. (b)Increase in number of mesh

layers also improves the ductile behaviour of ferrocement slabs. (c)The deflection of slabs at first

crack using PVC-coated weld mesh is showing about 25% more ductile behaviour than slabs with GI

coated weld mesh. (d)The progressive loading behavior from first crack to ultimate failure of

ferrocement specimens reinforced with PVC-coated mesh is same as GI-coated mesh, especially in 2

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and 3 layers. Also, the flexural load of slabs reinforced with PVC-coated mesh shows performance

of 90% of GI-coated mesh. Since ferrocement slabs using PVC coated mesh reinforcement is

corrosion-free and also capable of withstanding high flexural loads, this study recommends its

effective use in roof slabs/terraces, repair and renovation works of open terraces and canal lining

works. (e)The optimum number of mesh layers for 15 mm thick ferrocement slabs is 3 layers. Since

further increase in number of meshes is not possible, this study suggests that in order to increase the

flexural load capacity and ductility, as well as decrease the crack-width of ferrocement slabs,

discontinuous fibers may be used as additional reinforcement; and this can be experimented in the

future. Also, the slab thickness can be increased from 15 mm to 20 or 25 mm, and flexural studies

conducted, and the results of load and deflection and crack patterns can be compared to this study.

[9]

Naveen G.M., at.al. [November-2012]:The present work is concentrated on two major

aspects, Effect of blast furnace slag on first crack and ultimate strength and Behavior of light weight

ferrocement element under monotonic & repeated flexural loading. The first part of the present study

has been focused on the effect of blast furnace slag (BFS) on ultimate strength with replacement of

slag by 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% and second part of the work focusing the behavior of Light weight

ferrocement beam under monotonic load and repeated load with increased load. The results obtained

from this work is expected to be useful in determining the strength and ductility of light weight

ferrocement beam subjected to similar types of forces and thus will help toward designing

ferrocement elements to withstand monotonic and repeated flexural loading.Based on the

experimental investigations the following conclusions were drawn, (a)It can be observed that, the

first crack and ultimate strength increases up to 10% replacement of sand, and then decreases with

the increased percentage of sand replacement. (b)The light weight ferrocement specimens having

increased wire mesh (Volume fraction)could sustain greater number of repetitions, compared to the

plain light weight ferrocement specimens because of their greater strain carrying capacity. (c)Light

weight ferrocement beams have good moment of resistant under both monotonic & repeated loading.

(d)The mesh wires are found to be more effective in increasing the margin between first crack and

ultimate flexural strengths. [10]

YerramalaA.,et.al.[12 June 2013]:Present study is about Flexural strength of metakaolin

ferrocement was evaluated through laboratory investigation. Reference mortar with OPC of 43 grade

and metakaolin mortars with 5–25% metakaolin replacement in the increments of 5% with cement

were made. Constant water to cementations ratio of 0.5 was maintained for all the mortars.

Galvanized oven mesh (chicken mesh) was incorporated in the tension zone in one, threeand five-

layers to investigate the influence of reinforcement. The samples were water-cured for 7, 28,90 and

180 days. The results show that, up to 15% metakaolin replacement, flexural strengths were higher

than control ferrocement at all curing ages and for all mesh layers. However, replacements equal and

higher than 20% had lower strengths than control ferrocement for all mesh layers. It was further

found that 10% metakaolin is the optimum content for maximum flexural strength. The data

presented in this paper are a part of study conducted on ferrocement.The results of this study have

led to the following conclusions:(a)Rate of flexural tensile strength development in metakaolin

ferrocement is higher than the control ferrocement at all reinforcement levels. The strength increased

with curing age at all metakaolin replacements. The pattern of strength increase from 7 to 180 days is

nearly similar between control ferrocement and metakaolinferrocements. The strength progression

with curing age is similar for one-, three- and five-layer mesh ferrocements.Metakaolin replacements

between 10% and 20% are advantageous for long term rate of strength gain.

(b)At all curing ages, the flexural strength of ferrocements with metakaolin up to 15% is

higher than the ctrol ferrocement. As the highest strength found at 10% metakaolin replacement, it

may be a optimum replacement. For metakaolin percentages 20 and 25 the flexural strength is lower

than control ferrocement at all curing ages. The behaviours are similar for one-, three- and five-layer

mesh ferrocements. (c)Increases in the number of mesh layers enhance the flexural strength of the

ferrocement for all metakaolin percentages and for all curing ages. In general, the percentage

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increase is similar for control and metakaolin ferrocement with increase in mesh layers. (d)Increase

in mortar compressive strength through metakaolin incorporation is advantageous to increase

flexural strength especially at higher reinforcement levels. (e)At lower reinforcement (one-layer) the

reinforcement subjected to sufficient yielding before failure and resulted in wider crack width after

failure. Increase in reinforcement (three- and five-layer) increased resistance to failure and reduced

crack width after failure. Cracks distribute entire thickness of the ferrocement specimens with

increase in number of mesh layers. Use of small diameter chicken wire mesh is advantageous to hold

the mortar matrix even at one-layer reinforcement. (f)Flexural strength factor (k) (k-ratio between

metakaolin replaced ferrocement flexural strength and control ferrocement flexural strength) is

nearly the same for a given metakaolin replacements, irrespective of number of mesh layers and

curing ages. [11]

KiachehrB.,et.al,[July 2013]:This paper presented the experimental results of a study on the

feasible use of nano-silica and nano-alumina in normal concrete to increase its frost resistance. Based

on the results of this study, the following primary conclusions can be drawn: (a) The compressive

strength of concrete specimens increased by using nano-Al2O3 as cement replacement. Compressive

strength of concrete specimens increased by increasing the nano-alumina content.(b) Replacement of

cement content with nano-SiO2 improved the compressive strength of concrete mixes used in this

research. In this study, the optimum content of nano-SiO2 in concrete in order to increase its

compressive strength was 5 wt%.(c) Frost resistance of concrete mixes can be considerably improved

by the addition of nano-Al2O3 and nano-SiO2. These nano-materials behave not only as promoters

of pozzolanic reaction but also as fillers improving the pore structure of concrete and densifying the

microstructure of cement paste. (d) The frost resistance of concrete containing nano-Al2O3 is better

than that containing the same amount of nano-SiO2. [12]

A thin element, is used as a building construction as well as a repair material which is very

thin in thickness so that it has somewhat less compressive and flexural strength compare to

reinforced cement concrete, on other according to relative reference of literature addition of nano

silica in mortar improves compressive strength , flexural strenthg as well as other properties. The

Effective addition of nano silica in ferrocement may offers new element having unique properties

which having good strength and may satisfy desire requirement of construction.

III. METHODOLOGY

Research Evaluation of Ferrocement and nano-silica is discussed in the chapter of literature

review, in this chapter we analyse experimental research on reference objectives discussed earlier in

introduction chaper. For this experimental work done with variable quantities colloidal nanosillica

additions and different types of wire mesh and fix quantities are water cement ratio, cement sand

ratio and number of mesh layers. Casting of members is done same as regular method of concreting.

3.1 MESH REINFORCEMENT USED- The reinforcing mesh (with mesh openings of 6 to 25

mm) may be of different kinds, the main requirement being flexibility. It should be clean and free

from dust, grease, paint, loose rust and other substances. Galvanizing, like welding, reduces the

tensile strength, and the zinc coating may react with the alkaline environment to produce hydrogen

bubbles on the mesh. This can be prevented by adding chromium trioxide to the mortar. The volume

of reinforcement is between 4 and 8 % in both directions, ie between 300 and 600 kg/m3; the

corresponding specific surface of reinforcement ranges between 2 and 4 cm2/cm3 in both directions.

Following are some types of reinforcing mesh with details

3.1.1HEXAGONAL WIRE MESH-Commonly called chicken wire mesh, is the cheapest and

easiest to use, and available almost everywhere. It is very flexible and can be used in very thin

sections, but is not structurally as efficient as meshes with square openings, because the wires are not

oriented in the principal (maximum) stress directions.

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3.1.2WELDED WIRE MESH-Square welded wire mesh is much stiffer than chicken wire mesh

and provides increased resistance to cracking. However, inadequate welding produces weak

spots.15mm opening sides galvanized iron mesh used for experimental work.

3.2DESIGN OF FERROCEMENT-The mortar matrix usually comprises more than 95 percent of

the ferrocement volume and has a great influence on the behavior of the final product. Hence, great

care should be exercised in choosing the constituent materials, namely cement and fine aggregates,

and in mixing and placing the mortar. The chemical composition of the cement, the nature of the

aggregate, the aggregate-cement ratio, and the water cement ratio are the major parameters

governing the properties of the mortar. The importance of design parameters is discussed in detail in

ACI 549R. The following sections give a brief summary of the design requirements.

3.2.1MIX DESIGN OF MORTAR – The ranges of mix proportions recommended by 549.1R for

common ferrocement applications are: sand-cement ratio by weight, 1.5 to 2.5, and water-cement

ratio by weight, 0.35 to 0.5. The higher the sand content, the higher the required water content to

maintain the same workability.

So that,

select Cement to sand ratio = 1:2

And water cement to water ratio = 0.5

3.2.2 DESIGN OF FERROCEMENT CUT OFF TRENCH PANEL- design of ferrocement

panels includes determination of mesh layer which depends upon thickness (h), of ferrocement panel.

It observed that for given ferrocement panel of thickness (h),the recommended spacing of transeverse

wires should not be more than h. number of mesh layer (N)for ferrocement cut off trench panel of

size 1m x 1m and thickness of 25 mm is tentatively calculated as follows,

N = 0.16 x 25

N = 04 no’s

The design of ferrocement is based on percentage of volume fraction of reinforcement (Vf)

which is defined as the ratio of total volume of reinforcement divided by the volume of composites

(reinforcement and matrix). The total volume fraction of reinforcement (Vf) in each direction should

not be less than 1.8%. the design of reinforcement cutoff trench panel as per volume fraction

reinforcement is given as follows:

Sr= 4 V f / db

Where

Sr= specific surface area

Vf= volume fraction of reinforcement

db=dimeter of welded mesh

Sr for 10mm wire gauge is 19.34 mm then Sr for 18mm wire gauge is,

Sr = 19.34 x 10 / h

Sr = 19.34 x 10 / 25 = 7.7336

The volume fraction of reinforcement is,

Vf = 7.3736 x 1.16 / 4

Vf = 2.24 % > 1.8 % ok.

According to ACI 549R,

( )

[

]x 100

( )

[

]x100

N= 3.974 = 4 Nos

Hence, 4 number of mesh layers are reqnuired for 25mm thickness of cut off trench panels,

but the ferrocement cut off trench panels are tested for minimum number of mesh layers that is 2

no’s for both the types of mesh layers.

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3.3 SAMPLE SIZE AND NO. OF SIZE- sample size taken as per reference of ACI as follows

for compression and flexural test.

Member Size (mm)

Compression member a) Cube 70 x 70 x 70

Flexural member

b) Beam 70 x 70 x 221

c) Panel – I 550 x 200 x 25

d) Panel – II 550 x 200 x 35

Above samples required for each variable in three numbers for more accurate results. Below

tabling format shows no. of sample required for each variable.

No. of

Member

PF FN0.5% FN1.0% FN1.25% FN1.50% FN2.0% Total

CM WM CM WM CM WM CM WM CM WM CM WM

Cube 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 36

Beam 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 36

Panel-I 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 36

Panel-II 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 36

Total 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 144

Where CM – Chicken mesh

WM - Welded mesh

PF - Plain ferrocement

FN%- Ferrocement with nano silica in % addition of total quantity of cement

IV. CONCLUDING REMARK

According to previous thesis regarding ferrocement its clear that the ferrocement material is

cost effective, light, simple in construction, fullfill requirements of particular types construction and

many more advanteges. Similarly nanosilica is also very new construction material, and the element

containing nanopartical shows very unique properties than ordinary concrete. This thesis brings out

the importance of using ferrocement with nano silica as nano material which may change our vision,

expectations and abilities to control the material properties and might be the best structural

alternatives for RCC in the future. all material casting is to be done according to the respective

standards specifications of codes. All materials of experimental works satisfy the requirement as per

respective codes.

V. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Every orientation work has imprint of many people and this work is no different. This work

gives me an opportunity to express deep gratitude for the same. While preparing project report we

received endless help from number of people. This report would be incomplete if we don’t convey

our sincere thanks to all those who were involved.

First and foremost we would like to thank our respected guide Prof. Sanap S.T., Prof. Kale

R.S. ( H.O.D. Civil EngineeringDepartment), PrincipalDr. Kudale H.N. for giving us an

opportunity to present this project and their indispensable support, priceless suggestion and valuable

time.

Finally, we wish to thanks our friends and our family for being supportive of us, without

whom this project would not have seen the light of day. Every work is an outcome of full-proof

planning, continuous hard work and organized effort. This work is a combination of all the three put

together sincerely.

REFFERANCES

[1] M.A. Al-Kubaisy ,U, Mohd , ZaminJumaat- Flexural behaviour of reinforced concrete slabs withferrocement tension

zone cover.

[2] Hui Li, Hui-gang Xiao, Jie Yuan, JinpingOu-Microstructure of cement mortar with nano-particles.

Volume: 02 Issue: 03 March– 2017 (IJRIER)

Available Online at : www.ijrier.com Page 26

[3] Hui Li, Hui-gang Xiao, Jin-ping Ou-A study on mechanical and pressure-sensitive properties of cement mortar with

nanophase materials.

[4] M. Jamal Shannag ,Tareq Bin Ziyyad- Flexural response of ferrocement with fibrous cementitious matrices.

[5] F. Pacheco-Torgal, Said Jalali- Nanotechnology: Advantages and drawbacks in the field of construction and building

materials.

[6] F. Pacheco-Torgal, S. Miraldo, Y. Ding, J.A. Labrincha- Targeting HPC with the help of nanoparticles: An overview

[7] MeralOltulu, Remzi S.-Effect of nano-SiO2, nano-Al2O3 and nano-Fe2O3 powders on compressive strengths and

capillary water absorption of cement mortar containing fly ash.

[8] Chee Ban Cheah, MahyuddinRamli - Load capacity and crack development characteristics of HCWA–DSF high

strength mortar ferrocement panels in flexure.

[9] P.B. Sakthivel, A. Jagannathan- Study on Flexural Behaviour of Ferrocement Slabs Reinforced with PVC-coated

Weld Mesh.

[10] Naveen G.M, Suresh G.S- Experimental study on light weight ferrocement beam under monotonic and repeated

flexural loading.

[11] AmarnathYerramalaa, C. Ramachandurdu, V. Bhaskar Desai - Flexural strength of metakaolin ferrocement.

[12] KiachehrBehfarnia, NiloofarSalemi-The effects of nano-silica and nano-alumina on frost resistance of normal

concrete.