Abstract
In the present paper, changes in mechanical properties of Portland cement-based mortars due to the addition of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and corrosion of embedded steel rebars in CNT cement pastes are reported. Bending strength, compression strength, porosity and density of mortars were determined and related to the CNT dosages. CNT cement paste specimens were exposed to carbonation and chloride attacks, and results on steel corrosion rate tests were related to CNT dosages. The increase in CNT content implies no significant variations of mechanical properties but higher steel corrosion intensities were observed.
Highlights
Multifunctional cement–matrix composites are useful as structural materials that provide functional properties, which allow applications such as electrical grounding, electrical contacts for cathodic protection, deicing, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, antistatic flooring and strain sensing.Multifunctionality is attractive for cost reduction, durability enhancement, large functional volume, design simplification and absence of mechanical property loss [1]
Despite the potential advantages of carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon nanofibers (CNF) cement based composites, very few studies have been conducted in order to investigate the mechanical properties of Portland cement mortars fabricated with addition of such nanocomposites [10,14,21]
The influence of adding CNT to cement composites was studied in two different aspects
Summary
Multifunctional cement–matrix composites are useful as structural materials that provide functional properties, which allow applications such as electrical grounding, electrical contacts for cathodic protection, deicing, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, antistatic flooring and strain sensing. Multifunctionality is attractive for cost reduction, durability enhancement, large functional volume, design simplification and absence of mechanical property loss (which tends to occur if embedded devices are used in place of a multifunctional structural material) [1]. Materials 2014, 7 structures, capable of detecting stimulus and responding adequately, has created the need for materials with good mechanical properties and durability, and new additional functions. For example, self-strain sensing [1,2,3,4], damage sensing [3,5], thermal control [6], vibration reduction [7] and electromagnetic wave reflection [8,9]. Structural characteristics should be maintained or improved [5,12,13]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
