Design, mechanism, and performance of cement-based materials with zero-dimensional nanomaterials

Concrete has a highly heterogeneous and complex microstructure. Its macroproperties are dominated by the structure at microscale and nanoscale levels. Nanomaterials with microstructural features ranging from 0.1 to 100 nm in size, which exhibit novel properties different from their bulk counterparts, are often used in cement-based materials. The potential of nanoparticles to improve the performance of cement-based materials can lead to the development of novel, sustainable, and advanced cement-based composites with unique mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties. This chapter discusses the common zero-dimensional (0D) nanomaterials, such as nano-SiO2, nano-CaCO3, nano-Fe2O3, nano-TiO2, etc., employed in cement-based materials. Physical and chemical properties, dispersion and mixing procedures, and mechanisms underlying performance enhancement of these 0D nanomaterials are covered. Factors affecting fresh and hardened properties, involving heat of hydration, mechanical properties, shrinkage, durability, and microstructure, of cement-based materials are explored. In addition, the limitations and shortcomings of the current challenges associated with nanotechnology in concrete applications are analyzed and summarized. It aims to gather adequate knowledge about current nanotechnology and facilitate the application of 0D nanomaterials in cement-based materials.