Enhanced mechanical performance of reinforced concrete beams with nano-alumina: an experimental and analytical flexural study

The increased use of concrete in modern construction contributes significantly to global warming and pollution-related health risks due to increased CO2 emissions. The use of nanoparticles in cement composites has attracted significant attention from researchers in recent years. In the field of material science, nanomaterial’s are an emerging field. This study investigates the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete beams incorporating nano-Alumina. Experimental tests and analytical models were conducted to evaluate performance improvements. To enhance the mechanical qualities of concrete, the experiment looks at nanoparticles such Nano Alumina (NA) and one of the useful cementitious elements in cement. In concrete, cementitious material partially replaces nanoparticles and pozzolanic material. To calibrate the strength parameters, a range of concrete mixes, including M30, M40, and M50, were cured for 28, 56, and 90 days in water. For mixtures hardened after 28, 56, and 90 days, compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths were evaluated. An SEM analysis of the microstructure of mortar fragments present in concrete was conducted to determine how well nanoparticles fill concrete cavities. Due to the inherent brittleness and low tensile strength of conventional concrete, nano-Alumina (NA) was incorporated to enhance the mechanical performance of reinforced concrete beams. NA, owing to its high surface area and superior pozzolanic activity, refines the microstructure and improves load-bearing capacity. This study experimentally and analytically investigates the flexural behavior of NA-modified beams, demonstrating significant improvements in strength, ductility, and crack resistance.