Surface Modification of Nano‐SiO 2 Particles with Polycarboxylate Ether‐Based Superplasticizer under Microwave Irradiation

The mechanical properties and durability of cement‐based materials reinforced by nano‐SiO 2 (NS) particles are strongly dependent on the dispersion characteristics of the latter. This study presents an innovative eco‐friendly method, which improves the distribution of NS particles through their surface modification using polycarboxylate ether‐based (PCE) superplasticizer containing silane coupling agent under microwave irradiation. The above method ensures the formation of a core‐shell‐shell structure, wherein the PCE shell exhibits enhanced electrostatic and steric hindrance repulsion properties. Moreover, after the surface modification, an improved compatibility between NS and PCE and a higher dispersion stability of NS in the saturated calcium hydroxide solution are attained, which is proved by the respective grafting ratios and encapsulation parameters of the surface‐modified NS particles. The proposed method application guarantees an enhanced fluidity of a fresh cement paste, which makes it lucrative for the production of critical components from nano‐reinforced cement‐based materials.