Strength and durability enhancement of self compacting concrete using multi walled carbon nano tubes and nano titanium dioxide: A comparative analysis

Abstract

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have been widely used, especially in concrete applications. Further studies reveal that nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) is also used in concrete to intensify the properties of concrete. This study investigates the effects of adding various percentages (0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) of MWCNTs and nano TiO2 to M40 grade self-compacting concrete. The mechanical properties compressive, split tensile, and flexural strength along with durability aspects such as water absorption, rapid chloride penetration, and acid resistance were evaluated. The findings indicate that with the addition of 0.1%, 0.3% and 0.5% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) 2%,8% and 21% average increment, respectively in compressive strength for various molds casted is observed after 28 days, whereas other tested parameters are also showing significant increment. Similarly, with the addition of 0.1%, 0.3% and 0.5% of nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) 5%, 6%, and 10% average increment, respectively, in compressive strength was observed after 28 days. The durability parameters are also enhanced for both the nano materials, but MWCNTs show a greater increment when compared to nano TiO2. The cost comparison of both the nano materials is also taken into consideration, which shows that around 14 lakhs of material cost is required for 0.1% MWCNT is more when compared to 0.1% nano TiO2 required for casting 100 m3 of self-compacting concrete.