Abstract

Nanomaterials are increasingly utilized to enhance the mechanical properties, durability, and functionality of concrete materials but face challenges such as agglomeration and uneven dispersion in cementitious systems, which can offset the intended improvements. This paper reviews the advances and challenges associated with nano-modified cementitious composites, elucidating fundamental mechanisms and highlighting strategies for overcoming the challenges through experimental and computing techniques. The reviewed contents include (1) the classification of nanomaterials commonly used in cementitious systems and the mechanisms through which they enhance the mechanical properties of cementitious composites; (2) challenges of nanomaterials such as agglomeration in water, re-agglomeration in cementitious systems, and the adverse effects of nano-dispersant; (3) nanomaterial dispersion solutions such as mechanical methods, non-covalent and covalent surface treatments; (4) nanomaterial deposition on raw materials and computing techniques for improving the key properties of nano-modified cementitious composites; and (5) comparison of strategies for overcoming the challenges in dispersal of nanomaterials. This review contributes to the advancement of fundamental knowledge concerning nano-modified cementitious composites, thereby stimulating further research and expanding the applications of nanomaterials within this field.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Publication Status

Full Text Access

Comments

Arts Council of Indianapolis, Grant P0062-RD24.08

Keywords and Phrases

Agglomeration; Cementitious composite; Computer assisted methods; Dispersion; Nanomaterial

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2352-7102

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Feb 2026

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