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Structuring lightweight concrete with core-shell Fe3O4@DFNS nanoparticles: a path to smart and durable cementitious
Seyed Ali Abutorabi1, Amin Honarbakhsh1, Rahele Zhiani2
1Department of Civil Engineering, Ne.C., Islamic Azad University Neyshabur Iran amin_honarbakhsh@iau.ac.ir.
RSC Advances
|September 19, 2025
Summary
Magnetic Fe3O4@DFNS nanoparticles enhance lightweight concrete (LC) performance, improving strength and durability for marine applications. This novel additive reduces porosity and chloride penetration, offering a solution for aggressive environments.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Civil Engineering
Background:
- Lightweight concrete (LC) has limitations like high porosity and low durability.
- Functional nanostructures can improve concrete properties.
- There is a need for enhanced concrete performance in aggressive marine environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of Fe3O4@DFNS nanoparticles on lightweight concrete.
- To assess improvements in workability, strength, and durability.
- To explore the potential for marine and energy-efficient applications.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized Fe3O4@DFNS nanocomposite using co-precipitation-sol-gel.
- Incorporated various dosages (0.05-0.35 wt%) into LC mixes.
- Conducted rheological, mechanical, thermal, microstructural, and durability analyses (RCPT, cyclic wetting-drying, FEM, X-ray CT, TEM).
Main Results:
- Optimal dosage (0.25 wt%) improved workability and compressive strength by 30%.
- Reduced water absorption, porosity, and drying shrinkage.
- Achieved >45% reduction in chloride penetration depth and 71% lower mass loss in seawater.
- Decreased thermal conductivity by ~20%.
Conclusions:
- Fe3O4@DFNS nanoparticles significantly enhance LC performance, particularly durability and strength.
- The nanocomposite refines microstructure, reduces voids, and improves resistance to aggressive conditions.
- This additive shows promise for durable, energy-efficient construction in coastal and marine settings.
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