Self-heating performance of cement composites devised with carbon black and carbon fiber: Roles of superplasticizer and silica fume

Abstract

This study introduces an innovative approach to enhancing the self-heating performance of electrically conductive cement composites (ECCCs) by integrating carbon black and carbon fiber. The main test variables were the contents of silica fume (SF) and superplasticizer (SP). Among the 15 mixtures tested, three mixtures of the 3 % SP series containing 0, 5, and 10 % SF, showing a lower electrical resistivity than the other series, were selected and subjected to 24-h heating performance tests. Subsequently, their hydration characteristics, dispersion of conductive agents, and thermal expansion were examined. The outcomes of these tests unequivocally affirmed that incorporating SF at levels of 0 %–5 % in conjunction with 3 % SP effectively preserved the long-term self-heating performance of ECCCs. This research not only confirms the feasibility of this novel composite formulation but also highlights its potential advantages in maintaining consistent thermal performance, demonstrating its substantial promise for a broad array of applications in construction.