The enhancing role of nanomaterials in revolutionizing ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC): A journey from atomic precision to structural prominence

The incorporation of nanomaterials into ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) signifies a revolutionary advancement in concrete science, offering unparalleled advancements in material properties. This study systematically evaluates the role of various nanomaterials in modulating the pore structure, interfacial bonding, and mechanical performance of UHPC, with a focus on compressive, tensile, flexural, and nano-mechanical characteristics. Through comprehensive experimentation, optimal dosages of nanomaterials were determined, resulting in a 52.94 % enhancement in 28-day compressive strength . Significant improvements were also observed in split tensile and flexural strengths, with increases of 34.51 %, 46.21 %, and 49.63 % and 36.72 %, 48.02 %, and 40.40 % , respectively, relative to conventional UHPC. Detailed chemical analyses, including Ca/Si ratio modifications of 1.21, 0.54, 0.45, and 0.76 , underscore the role of nanomaterials in modifying the chemical interactions within the cementitious matrix. These improvements are attributed to the nanomaterials’ ability to enhance the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) via nucleation and adsorption processes, leading to increased ITZ density, improved bond integrity, and a reduction in porosity. Consequently, there is a significant refinement in the pore structure, elevating the structural density and durability of UHPC. The nanomaterials’ high dispersive properties further optimize the pore morphology, leading to superior mechanical and durability performance. The findings underscore the transformative potential of nanomaterials in advancing UHPC as a sustainable, high-performance material, positioning it as a critical enabler in the development of resilient and long-lasting infrastructure. • Nano materials are enhanced the compressive strength 52.94 %, 62.35 % and 48.23 % with ref UHPC. • The optimum nano-based UHPC mixes are 0.06 % GO, 0.06 % MWCNT, 2 % NS is suited for rapid early-age strength. • Nano materials are improving the microstructure of UHPC mixes with less porosity. • Nano materials are enhancing the pore filling action reduce the microcracks at the nano scale level in UHPC mix. • Nano materials are increasing C-S-H gel, it leads to the dense microstructure formation of UHPC.