Preparation, property determination and bridge health monitoring applications of self-sensing cement nanocomposites

Abstract

Graphene has local superconductivity, very high electron mobility, good mechanical properties and high stability, and is therefore an excellent filler material for self-sensing cementitious composites. The incorporation of graphene provides a broad application prospect for the development of self-sensing cementitious composites. This work explored the effects of polyethylene (PE) fiber size and surface modifiers on the compressive and tensile properties of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). Then, graphene was added on this basis to observe the effect of graphene doping on the electrical properties of UHPC and to select the optimal doping amount. Finally, the mechanical properties and tensile and compressive self-sensing of the UHPC added with graphene were tested. Finally, the bridge with higher stress under self-weight is simulated by finite element to find the location of sensor placement and design a simple bridge health monitoring system.