The facilitated synthesis of core‐multi‐shell silica nanoparticles and its performance onto cementitious based system in comparison with commercial silica nanoparticles

The implementation of nanoparticles in cementitious systems have been studied for long time, however the knowledge about the influence of nanosized part (e.g. silica nanoparticles) has still to be fulfilled. The enhancement of cementitious matrix, specifically in the ultra‐high‐performance‐concrete (UHPC) system, has always been focused by researchers in various means of investigation and the application of silica nanoparticle plays a significant role as one of the attempts.

Different methods have been applied for synthesizing silica nanoparticles (including the core multi‐shell silica nanoparticle) within this study to simplify the process. Moreover, the comparison of two types of silica nanoparticle (synthesized and commercial) has been done in mean of character and effect to the cementitious systems by appropriate methods, to be named as: size distributions examination, microscopic methods, investigation of mechanical properties, phases composition, etc. In order to hamper crack propagation at the nanoscale, a brand‐new and simple synthesized core multi‐shell silica nanoparticle with a high specific surface area was able for the first time be applied to the scope of cementitious matrices with an impressive impact on the properties of the investigated UHPC systems. This silica nanoparticle performs double functions: as nanoscopic shock absorber and as an additive to achieve a homogeneous nanoscale elastomer distribution and thus generates positive influence not only on the properties of UHPC, but also on future solutions for materials and environmental issues. With deep and meticulous study in the future, this type of complex nanoparticle is promising great applications to give a hand to find the solution for raw materials and therefore being closer to the aim of greener construction industry.