A comparative study on performance evaluation of hybrid GNPs/CNTs in conventional and self-compacting mortar

Abstract

In this paper performance of graphite nano platelets and carbon nanotubes was investigated in both conventional as well as self-compacting mortar. Workability, linear-shrinkage, rheological properties, flexural and compressive strength, air content and water absorption tests were conducted. Results reveal that by addition of nano media in cement matrix workability, shrinkage, air content, and water absorption adamantly reduces as compared to control mixtures. On the other hand yield stress, plastic viscosity, compressive and flexural strength enhances significantly. The shrinkage response of SCM-3 and CCM-3 depicts reduction of 66% and 61% respectively. Furthermore, yield stress and plastic viscosity increase 53% and 12% respectively. By addition of nano media deviation in crack propagation, more nucleation sites, capturing the micro voids, filling the pores and dense packing of the hydrated products were found. Increase in compressive strength and flexural strength was observed. Hence hybrid nano media can be intruded as a potential candidate in cement matrix for enhancing the structural properties.