Study of Mechanical Properties of Concrete Using Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract

In this research project use of carbon nanotubes as nano reinforcement in concrete to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete are studied. Carbon nanotubes are becoming popular because of their extreme strength and mechanical properties. It is the new material which can be used in the field of structure and transportation engineering. Multi walled CNT’s were chosen for this project. Concrete and cement mortar samples were prepared by keeping fix w/c ratio, aggregate/cement ratio with two different concentrations (0.05% and 0.01%) of CNT’s. CNT’s were dispersed in aqueous solution in the presence of surfactant in ultrasonic mixer. Compression samples were tested after 7, 14, 28 days of curing, while flexural samples were tested after 28 days of curing. Effect of surfactant on mechanical properties of concrete was studied. Tests showed that compression and flexural strength can be improved by very low concentration of CNT’s. 0.05% concentration showed relatively good results as compared to 0.1% concentration. Use of higher concentration of surfactant showed poor results. Test on compression showed 50% improved results with 0.05% concentration, while test on flexure showed 138% improvement in results with the same concentration as compared to normal concrete