Abstract
This paper aims to demonstrate the self-protection and self-sensing functionalities of self-compacted concrete (SCC) containing carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon microfibers (CMF) in a hybrid system. The ability for self-sensing at room temperature and that of self-protection after thermal fatigue cycles is evaluated. A binder containing a high volume of supplementary mineral additions (30%BFSand20%FA) and different type of aggregates (basalt, limestone, and clinker) are used. The self-diagnosis is assessed measuring electrical resistivity (ER) and piezoresistivity (PZR) in compression mode within the elastic region of the concrete. Thermal fatigue is evaluated with mechanical and crack measurements after heat cycles (290–550 °C). SCC withstands high temperature cycles. The protective effect of the hybrid additive (CNT+CMF) notably diminishes damage by keepinghigher residual strength and lessmicrocracking of the concrete. Significant reductions in ER are detected. The self-diagnosis ability of functionalized SCC isconfirmed with PZR. A content of the hybrid functional additive (CNT+CMF) in the percolation region is recommended to maximize the self-sensing sensitivity. Other parameters as sample geometry, sensor location, power supply, and load level have less influence.
Highlights
The optimizationof the harvesting and distribution of energy from renewable sources needs specific attention for sustainablegrowth
A linear trend can be seen between Lsencoeff and fractional change of electrical resistivity (FCR), confirming the highest sensitivity to the hybrid content with the self-sensing additive in the region of percolation, for 0.2% carbon nanotubes (CNT) + 0.35% or
With CNT+carbon microfibers (CMF): The functionalization of self-compacted concrete (SCC) has allowedfor the incorporation of new properties to the concrete and the enhancement of is performance in aggressive conditions
Summary
The optimizationof the harvesting and distribution of energy from renewable sources needs specific attention for sustainablegrowth. To guarantee the implementation of a determined renewable energy system, which is sufficiently durable for its service life, the parallel advance ofthe construction of the most suitable infrastructure is fundamental. The operating conditions of most renewable energy systems occur in extreme conditions [1]. Offshore wind platforms can be located in different environmental temperatures, from warm to freezing seawater. Windmill towers have to withstand high fatigue loads and extreme environments. Solar power plants and geothermal plants have to endure very high temperatures, and cooling towers are in contact with aggressive acid media
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