Enhancement of Cement Properties by Means of In Situ Prepared Nanoparticles

Cement is a vital material in our modern society. It is the only thing that humans consume more of, by volume, than water. Conventional cement-based materials are usually brittle, have low tensile strength and exhibit bulk shrinkage. With the recent advancements in nanotechnology, many researchers investigated the addition of nanoparticles to the cement mix to enhance its workability and mechanical properties. In fact, nanoparticles were found to increase compressive and tensile strengths and decrease porosity and permeability of the cement. However, on top of the high cost of the commercially available nanoparticles, proper dispersion of the nanoparticles within the cement slurry was a challenge. This work aims to fabricate the nanoparticles within the cement slurry by utilizing inexpensive materials to formulate the nanoparticles. The study focuses on cementing applications in the oil and gas industry, but the methodology can also be applied to the construction industry. The potential impact of this work is huge through providing better protection for the environment and reducing cement requirements in various applications. Hence, lower CO2 emissions from cement manufacturing and lower construction cost.

Faculty Supervisor:

Maen Husein

Student:

Ahmed Mehairi

Partner:

Trican Well Service Ltd.

Discipline:

Engineering - chemical / biological

Sector:

Nanotechnologies

University:

Program: