Experimental study on compressive strength of cement-CNT composite paste

Abstract

The role of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the compressive strength characteristics of hydrated Portland IS 1489 cement paste has been studied. Standard specimens (40 mm × 40 mm × 160 mm) as per IS: 516-2004 were prepared by mixing 0.1% CNTs by weight to cement for determining the compressive strength of composites. The specimens were tested after 7, 14, 28 and 35 days of curing. Results show an increase in compressive strengths in Cement–CNTs composites having CNT content of 0.1% by weight of cement. The increase in compressive strengths with both techniques; mixture of CNTs with cement in powder form and mixture of CNTs with cement in hydrated form were 8.5% and 22%, respectively by holding the specimen for 28 days of curing. Increase in curing time by 7 days from 28 to 35 days did not bring any appreciable increase in compressive strength because of the complete absorption of all the ingredients into the mixture due to saturation.