Influence of Integration of Phase Change Materials on Hydration and Microstructure Properties of Nanosilica Admixed Cementitious Mortar

Abstract

The present study demonstrates the influence of integrating phase change materials (PCMs) on hydration and microstructure properties of nanosilica admixed cementitious mortar. First, the optimized dosage of nanosilica in correspondence to compressive strength was determined. Subsequently, the desired proportion of PCMs was identified pertaining to a designated compressive strength of 35 MPa at the curing age of 28 days. The hydration and microstructure studies were carried out through thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Further, thermal properties were determined by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Incorporation of nanosilica into the cementitious mortar was found to have a positive influence on early strength development and durability, however, there was found to be an increase in chemical shrinkage as compared to the control mixture. PCMs integrated cementitious mortar improved the thermal efficiency as well as reduced the chemical shrinkage, but adversely affected the mechanical, hydration, and durability properties. With respect to development of compressive strength of the cementitious mortar, it is found that n-octadecane PCMs performed better amidst other PCMs, such as paraffin and sodium carbonate hydrates. Further, studies were carried out on cementitious mortar having both nanosilica (optimized proportion) and PCMs (the best performing). From the results, it is found that cementitious mortar comprising of both nanosilica and PCMs have compensated the drawbacks of one another. Blended mortar (having both nanosilica and PCMs) showed superior strength gain at early age, better durability resistance, low chemical shrinkage, and superior thermal performance.