Incorporation of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC): Effects on Mechanical Properties

Abstract

Due to the outstanding mechanical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are considered to offer the probability to enhance the properties of high-performance cementitious composites，and to reduce ecological cost of construction materials. Recent work in the area of concrete materials research has shown the potentiality of improving concrete properties by adjusting the mic-structure of cement hydrates, addition of nanotubes and controlling the delivery of admixtures. In this study, the multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were effectively dispersed in the water solution by applying ultrasonic energy. The results show that small amount of effectively dispersed MWCNTs can visible increase the strength of the cementitious matrix.