Design of smart cementitious composites based on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) using probe ultrasonicator for dispersion

LMDC, Université de Toulouse, INSA, UPS Génie Civil, 135 Avenue de Rangueil, 31077, Toulouse Cedex 04, France

^* Corresponding author: shahzad@insa-toulouse.fr

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop smart cementitious material by incorporating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Two different types of carbon nanotubes (CNT) were dispersed using probe ultrasonicator; (i) Pristine CNT (P-CNT), and (ii) Functionalized CNT through annealing (A-CNT). Percolation threshold and optimum content of CNTs were determined by measuring electrical resistivity, porosity, compressive and flexural strengths at various contents of CNTs (0, 0.5 %, 0.75 %, and 1 % with respect to mass of cement). Self-sensing study was also carried out on smart material by relating the electrical properties with cyclic compressive loading. For this purpose, the electrical response was recorded with Wheatstone Bridge (WSB) circuit. The effect of curing and saturation degree of specimens on the resistivity pattern was also discussed. The results of electrical resistivity and mechanical properties showed that the content of CNTs should be at least 0.75 % to develop smart cementitious materials with a significant sensitivity and without detrimental effect on the mechanical properties. Moreover, smart material incorporating pristine CNT provides better sensitivity of self-sensing response as compared to the annealed CNT. Self-sensing test results also showed that with the increase in the content of CNT, sensitivity and repeatability of the sensing response were improved.