Evaluation of recycled nano carbon black and waste erosion wires in electrically conductive concretes

Abstract

Increasing number of studies have focused on the materials to impart electrical conductivity into concretes. Yet, economical concerns hinder the use of conductive materials in large-scales. This study investigates the performance of electrical conductive additives obtained from waste materials on the mechanical and conductive behavior of concretes. 36 different concrete mixtures containing carbon fiber (CF), recycled nano carbon black (RNCB), waste wire erosion (WWE) and steel fiber (SF) were prepared. Carboxymethyl cellulose was used as the fiber distributor. Mechanical behavior of specimens were characterized through compressive and flexural tests along with impact experiments. Bulk and surface resistance measurements were performed for electrical conductivity analysis of concrete specimens. SEM analysis were carried out to display the amount and morphology of porosities inside concrete. Our results indicate that RNCB has significant effect on the reduction of electrical resistance when used in combination with other fillers. Besides, WWE were shown to be effective in the reduction of resistivity both in the use of alone and combined with small amount of CF. Our cost analysis reveals that electrical conductive concretes (ECON) prices can be diminished up to 40% through utilizing waste materials without the sacrifice of mechanical properties.