Ultrasonic and superplasticizer assisted dispersion of hybrid carbon nanomaterials (FCNT and GO): its effect on early stage hydration and physico-mechanical strength of cement mortar

In the present study, the prominent role of carbon nanomaterials (GO or FCNTs) individually and hybrid carbon nanomaterials (Hybrid-CNMs) on early stage of hydration of ordinary Portland cement has been investigated. Hydration rates were quite dominant in case of hybrid CNM-CNCs as compared to CNM-CNCs due to additional nucleation sites as well as interfacial adhesion provided by the 3-D hybrid framework of Hybrid-CNMs. Further, hydration rate was found to be prevalent in case of Hybrid-CNMs without use of polycarboxylate ether based superplasticizer (PCE-SP) at earlier hydration ages (i.e. up to 24 h), while it was predominant in case of Hybrid-CNMs with use of PCE-SP at later hydration ages of 48 h as shown by XRD and TGA studies. Compressive strength and split tensile strength were enhanced by 83.6% and 52.7% for SP@Hybrid-CNM as compared to control sample at 28 days of hydration as a result of additional production of hydration products (C-S-H) at the composite's interface. TGA results revealed that sample incorporating Hybrid-CNMs produced higher quantity of calcium hydroxide.