Resistivity Changes of Electrically Conductive Silicate Composites Loaded in Different Directions

Abstract

Electrically conductive composites based on silicates offer new possibilities for the use of composites not only in civil engineering but in the construction industry in general. These materials can be used, for example, for resistive heating of roads and highways, surge protection for buildings, EMI shielding, or smart sensors. This article focuses on cement composites where graphite powders are used as electrically conductive fillers. The research focuses on the behaviour and the change of the electrically conductive properties of these materials under mechanical loading. The changes in the resistivity of the composites when loaded in different directions on the electric current flow was investigated and studied. The specimens were loaded in the direction of electric current and in the direction perpendicular to the electric current.