Experimental Investigation to study the Effect of Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes in Polymer/Cement- Based Matrix for Structural Applications

Abstract

The present paper investigates the behaviour of polymer/cement beams reinforced with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The addition of MWCNTs was varied at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 per cent by weight of polymer/cement matrix. Dispersion of MWCNTs was carried out using ultrasonic energy. Composite beams were tested under flexure in order to evaluate their mechanical property such as   load–deflection criteria. These results were then compared with those from plain polymer/cement beams. The present work also investigates the optimum percentage of MWCNTs that gives the best results in terms of both enhanced properties and economy. Scanning electron microscopy was conducted to examine the bond between the MWCNTs and the polymer/cement matrix.