Experimental investigation on the effect of nano-silica on reinforced concrete Beam-column connection subjected to Cyclic Loading

Beam-column joints are crucial load transmission zones because they face concentrated forces from both the beams and the columns. High shear and axial stresses caused by these concentrated forces in the area of the joint may result in decreased joint strength. This article proposes a new beam-to-column connection developed for precast concrete-resisting frames. Concrete mixtures are enhanced mechanically by adding nano silica as it increases compressive strength, flexural strength, and abrasion resistance. Within the concrete, it creates a solid, gel-like matrix that fills voids and strengthens the whole construction. In this study, three reinforced concrete beam-column joint specimens were cast with fly ash, the other three with nano-silica and fly ash, and one sample with nano-silica and a control mix without admixtures was cast. Specimen cast using fly ash and nano-silica is subjected to cyclic loading after 28 days of curing. A load capacity of 100 kN was imposed on the column during testing. It was observed that a gradual increase in fly ash decreased the compressive and flexural strength of the beam-column joints. This decrease in strength was addressed by adding 2.5% nano-silica. Nano silica acts as a nucleus to bond tightly with cement particles during hydration. The results showed that the flexural strength equivalent to that of a controlled specimen can be achieved by adding nano-silica at 2.5% and fly ash at 60%. The highest loading of 38.1 kN can be applied to the specimen with nano-silica without fly ash. Although a higher axial compression ratio can improve the bearing capacity and initial stiffness, it can also reduce deformation capacity and flexibility.