Abstract
This paper is aimed at investigating the self-sensing properties of Portland-free alkali-activated binders doped with carbon-based nanofillers. Four different inclusions (carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibers, carbon black and graphene nanoplatelets) were added into the matrix in the same amount. The physical and electromechanical properties were analyzed. The self-sensing capabilities of the samples were tested by applying a square wave voltage signal and measuring the variation of electrical resistance during cyclical compression tests. The results showed that the presence of nano-inclusions enhanced the sensing behavior of the materials, especially regarding the linearity and the hysteresis performances. Such results appear promising for the application of such novel and innovative nano-modified composites in the field of monitoring structures and infrastructures.
Highlights
Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world, and its consumption is estimated at more than 25 billion tons [1]
The purpose of this work is the evaluation of the self-sensing capability of one-part alkali-activated slag cement-based mortars doped with different carbon-based nanofillers
The results show that all nano-modified materials exhibited enhanced properties, with the best sensitivity demonstrated by carbon black and carbon nanotubes
Summary
Concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world, and its consumption is estimated at more than 25 billion tons [1] Due to this huge production, the cement industry is characterized by a very strong environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions, energy use and natural resource consumption. The NRMC (Natural Raw Materials Consumption) of alkali-activated slag-based mortars is about 30–40% lower in comparison with mixtures manufactured with traditional binders. This reduction in environmental impact is mainly due to the absence of the high temperature calcination step, whereas the calcination of Portland clinker consumes a large amount of fossil fuel-derived energy, and releases CO2 as a reaction product. The re-use of GGBFS, an industrial by-product derived from steel manufacturing, limits the consumption of limestone and clay employed as raw materials for OPC production
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