Biogenic silver-nanocomposite-modified two-layer concrete paving blocks: fabrication routes and physicochemical characterization
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/TRVS.2026.002Keywords
silver nanoparticles, biogenic silver nanocomposite, cementitious composite, two-layer paving block, surface functionalization, SEM-EDS, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, livestock-facility hygieneAbstract
Two-layer concrete paving blocks provide a practical architecture for concentrating functional additives within the exposed facing layer while retaining a conventional structural base. This study evaluated four routes for introducing a previously characterized biogenic silver nanocomposite, designated AgNP, into or onto the facing layer. Five formulations were prepared: an unmodified control (CTRL), surface spraying with a 6.67 mg mL⁻¹ AgNP suspension (AgNP-S), surface powder dusting (AgNP-PD), incorporation of the AgNP suspension into the facing mixture at 0.41 wt% relative to cement (AgNP-SI), and solution incorporation followed by powder dusting (AgNP-SI+PD). AgNP-SI was selected for detailed comparison with CTRL because it combined a macroscopically uniform surface with a defined incorporated dose. Morphology and elemental distribution were examined by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), whereas matrix-level chemical features were evaluated by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. Both CTRL and AgNP-SI displayed heterogeneous aggregate and hydration-product morphologies, with no gross disruption of the cementitious matrix in the analyzed fields. EDS mapping confirmed silver retention in AgNP-SI and revealed a heterogeneous distribution containing Ag-rich microdomains. The software-reported mean for selected modified microareas was 4.33 mass% Ag, while point spectra ranged from 0.48 to 22.14 mass% Ag; these values represent local semiquantitative microanalysis rather than bulk composition. FTIR spectra retained the principal silicate, carbonate, and hydration-product bands. Raman spectra of AgNP-SI showed intensified features near 1350cm⁻¹, and
1590–1600cm⁻¹, consistent with carbonaceous components of the biogenic coating and a possible local Ag-associated enhancement of scattering. Collectively, the results demonstrate that the biogenic silver-bearing phase can be selectively incorporated into the wearing layer and remains analytically detectable without gross alteration of the dominant cementitious framework.
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