Abstract

This study assessed the effect of nano-sealer (Zycoprime) on the characteristic strength (mechanical) of concrete. The effects in concrete were evaluated through a workability test, water absorption, SEM-EDX analysis and compressive strength test. A concrete mix design of grade M15 was employed in this study. The total samples were divided into four different concrete mixtures control specimen (0 kg), 0.5 kg, 1.0 kg and 1.5 kg of nano-sealer (Zycoprime). A total of 36 concrete cube specimens were cast for standard compressive test, three samples of each mix design were crushed/tested for 7 days, 14 days and 28 days. The result of the slump test showed that all the concrete produced with the addition of nano-sealer has a values ranges from 8 – 13 mm while that of control (0kg) has 10 mm. The water absorption test result showed that concrete produced with 0kg of nano-sealer has mean water absorption of 1.50%, while others range from 1.25% to 1.05% for 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 kg incorporation of nano-sealer. The results of the compressive strength test performed on the concrete samples revealed that, on average, the concretes produced without the addition of nano-sealer had compressive strengths of 21.75N/mm2 at 28 days and while others with the incorporation of nano-sealer at 0.5 kg, 1.0 kg and 1.5 kg have 16.50 N/mm2, 15.52 N/mm2 and 14.50 N/mm2 at 28 days respectively. Also, the SEM analysis revealed the effect of the used nano-sealer on the produced concrete. The study concluded that the incorporation of the nano-sealer above 1.0 kg is not required where strength is the needed but can be increase in waterlog area for the durability of concrete.