The effects of curing medium on flexural strength and water permeability of concrete incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles

The effect of limewater on flexural strength and water permeability of TiO₂ nanoparticles binary blended concrete has been investigated. TiO₂ nanoparticles with partial replacement of cement by 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 weight percent have been used as reinforcement. Curing of the specimens has been carried out in water and saturated limewater for 7, 28 and 90 days after casting. The results indicate that TiO₂ nanoparticles up to maximum replacement level of 2.0% produces concrete with improved flexural strength and water permeability when the specimens cured in saturated limewater with respect to the specimens cured in water. TiO₂ nanoparticles can improve the filler effect and also the high pozzolanic action of fine particles increases substantially the quantity of strengthening gel. Although the limewater curing medium could not improve the compressive strength of concrete with respect to the water curing medium, incorporating nanoparticles could cause more strength and resistance to water permeability for the specimens cured in saturated limewater with respect to the specimens cured in water.