Electric Conductivity Changes in Geopolymer Samples with Added Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract

By incorporation of nanotubes to the current composite materials, their properties can be significantly improved. Carbon nanotubes can act as filler, which minimizes the air gaps content in the matrix. The denser structure positively affects the physical and mechanical properties of the whole composite. The paper deals with alkali-activated materials (AAM) based on finely-ground granulated blast furnace slag modified by carbon nanotubes. Prismatic samples of this type of AAM were prepared with addition of 0.1 – 0.4wt. % of carbon nanotubes (with 0.1% step). The change of electrical parameters (electrical capacity, relative permittivity, real and imaginary impedance component) was observed. The obtained results indicate that the absolute value of the impedance decreases with increasing amount of carbon nanotubes and relative permittivity shows the general increase. The results may contribute to further research and development of alkali-activated systems, focusing on practical applications in construction.