Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Mechanical Properties and Durability of Latex-Modified Cement Mortar

Abstract

This paper studies the effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the mechanical properties and durability of polymer latex-modified cement mortar. Latex-modified cementitious materials possess many advantages. However, reduction of mechanical properties due to the introduction of an amorphous structure within the cement composite has limited its application. In this study, multi-walled carbon nanotubes functionalised with carboxyl group (MWCNTs-COOH), ranging from 0% to 0.15% by weight, are added into mortar modified with 0.6 wt.% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) latex. Mechanical properties including compressive strength and flexural strength are measured. Water absorption test and rapid chloride diffusion test are performed to assess durability performance. Results indicate considerable increase of compressive strength and flexural strength, as well as improvement in durability, by the addition of MWCNTs-COOH. With Scanning Electron Microscopy conducted on both the latex solution and cement composite, the microstructural changes resulted from MWCNT addition are revealed.