Thermal response characterization and comparison of carbon nanotube-enhanced cementitious composites

Carbon nanotubes (CNT) can be integrated with cement-based composites to modify their electrical and thermal characteristics. In this study, the objective is to characterize the thermal characteristics of CNT-based cement mortars cast using two unique CNT mixing methods. The mixing method, CNT content, curing age, and applied electrical excitation were systematically varied during experiments. The results of the temperature tests with the CNT cement mortars indicated that mixing CNTs in sand more effectively dispersed the CNTs throughout the mortar, and thus more effectively modified the thermal characteristics of CNT cement mortar. Furthermore, cross-sectional image analysis using field emission scanning electron microscopy supports increased coherence inside the cement due to strong covalent bonds with C-S-H, a hydrate from the temperature tests.