Abstract
The research presented in this paper presents a quantitative analysis of cracking patterns on the surface of cement paste, which has been modified by the addition of the multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The cracking patterns analyzed were created as a result of increased temperature load. MWCNTs were used as an aqueous dispersion in the presence of a surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Four series of the cement paste were tested, and the samples differed in the water/cement (w/c) ratio, cement class, and the presence of MWCNTs. Image analysis tools were used to quantify the cracking patterns and it was proposed to measure parameters, such as the average cluster area, average cluster perimeter, average crack width, and crack density. In order to facilitate the image analysis process, the sample surface was subjected to preparation and using statistical analysis tools it was assessed whether the method of surface preparation affects the way the sample is cracked. The paper also presents the analysis of the relationships that occur between parameters describing the cracking patterns, and also with the physico-mechanical properties of the cement pastes. It was attempted to explain the dependencies using elements of fractal theory and the theory of dispersion systems.
Highlights
Cementitious composites embedded in a real building structure are subjected to constant stresses and deformations due to changes in environmental parameters, e.g., changes in air humidity, air temperature, sunlight, etc
The paper presents the results of research and analysis of the cracking patterns that were formed on the surface of the cement paste as a result of increased temperature loading
In order to facilitate the image analysis process, the samples were subjected to the preparation, which consisted in applying the thin white acrylic film to the scanned surface
Summary
Cementitious composites embedded in a real building structure are subjected to constant stresses and deformations due to changes in environmental parameters, e.g., changes in air humidity, air temperature, sunlight, etc. The effect of these deformations is the development of cracks in the material that arise in its weakest place [1,2]. The cracking patterns described using the quantitative parameters, such as the crack density or crack width, determine the further durability and strength of a cementitious material because the progressive development of cracks is a simple method of the material’s destruction.
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