The Effect of Different Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Aspect Ratio on the Compressive Strength of the Cement-Based Concrete
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54338/27382656-2025.8-06Keywords:
carbon nanotubes, cement based concrete, compressive strength, aspect ratio, outer diameterAbstract
In recent years, there has been extensive research on the mechanical and physical properties of composite cement-based building materials containing nanosized carbon particles, particularly multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), owing to their mechanical and physical advantages. This study investigated the effect of purified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with different aspect ratios on the compressive strength of cement-based concrete. This study aimed to enhance the mechanical properties of the composites by optimizing the MWCNT dosage and type. The novelty of this study lies in comparing three MWCNT types (TNM2, TNM3, and TNM7) with aspect ratios ranging from ~250 to ~4347. Concrete samples with 0–0.2 wt.% MWCNTs by the weight of cement were tested after 7 days of curing. The results show that the compressive strength increased by 9.41% (TNM2 at 0.2%), 2.80% (TNM3 at 0.05%), and 12.13% (TNM7 at 0.05%). High-aspect-ratio MWCNTs showed consistent improvement with increasing content, whereas low-aspect-ratio MWCNTs peaked at 0.05%. This effect is attributed to the nanotube dispersion, reinforcement efficiency, and porosity control. A standardized ultrasonic dispersion technique was used to ensure the homogenous distribution of nanotubes in the cement matrix. These findings support the development of nano-engineered concrete with improved early strength for structural and precast construction applications.
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