Paper Title
Enhancing Properties of Ferrocement using Bentonite Clay and M-Sand - A Review
Abstract
Researches are continuously carried out worldwide to enhance the properties of cement and concrete. One such
recent development is the incorporation of nano materials in construction industry, especially in cement and concrete as
concrete is the second most consumed commodity in the world after water.
The main advantage that can be achieved by the addition of nano material in concrete and cement mortar is improving
strength/weight ratio which is one of the major requirements of the present. Increased dead weight of concrete is always a
concern for civil engineers. Improved strength/weight ratio will take us closer to the goal of green building by minimizing
the materials used and increasing the stress levels that the structure can carry. Also nanoclay reduces the infiltration of water
into the concrete there by protecting the reinforcement present in concrete which increases its durability. The present study is
carried out by replacing percentage by weight of cement with bentonite clay. Tests are performed by varying the mix
proportions and number of fine wire mesh layers. Compressive and flexural strength tests were performed with nano
ferrocement samples and the results are compared with conventional ferrocement. These test results will be providing the
analysis of the addition of nano material in terms of strength, adoptability and feasibility of usage. Nano technology will be
helpful in environmental management as it limits the usage of raw materials.
Keywords - Ferrocement, Nano material, Bentonite clay, Sustainability, Compressive and Flexural strength, Nano
technology.