Title:
Strengthening the ITZ Interactions of Metakaolin-OPC Concrete Using Monodispersed Carbon-based Nanomaterials
Author(s):
Rohitashva Singh
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/24/2024
Abstract:
While compressive strength of concrete can be enhanced by using metakaolin (MK), such approach results in a relatively brittle material with limited tensile strain capacity. This study presents the multiscale mechanisms to improve the modulus of elasticity and strain energy absorption capability of the Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) in MK-cement concrete using low concentrations of monodispersed carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanofibers (CNFs). Nanoscale imaging and mechanical property mapping at the Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) between the nanomodified MK-OPC matrix and aggregates (Figure 1) showed that the local nanostructure and morphology of ITZ was modified, resulting in an impressive increase in the modulus of elasticity (+20.7%) and toughness (+23%). Results of the three-point bending test on notched beam specimens indicated a 1.5x higher tensile load-carrying and strain energy absorption capacity of the CNT reinforced MK-cement concrete compared to the reference MK-cement concrete at the pre-peak/elastic and post-crack stages of deformation.