Sun, Zhe
(2025)
Evaluating the Effects of Carbon Nanotubes on Concrete.
Doctoral Dissertation, University of Pittsburgh.
(Unpublished)
This is the latest version of this item.
Abstract
In this dissertation, the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNT) to enhance the properties of concrete has been extensively explored. The study focused on addressing the inherent weaknesses of traditional concrete, such as low tensile strength, susceptibility to cracking, shrinkage, and limited resistance to environmental factors. The aim was to leverage the exceptional mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of CNT to overcome these limitations and improve concrete's performance and durability.
Initially, the background and limitations of traditional concrete were reviewed, followed by an analysis of the state-of-the-art concrete research, highlighting the significant challenges posed by concrete's brittleness, shrinkage, and durability issues. The introduction of CNT was identified as a promising solution to address these challenges, given their unique characteristics and potential for reinforcing concrete at the nanoscale.
The study then proceeded to optimize the dispersion of CNT in concrete. This involved addressing the challenges associated with achieving uniform distribution of CNT, which is crucial for enhancing the mechanical properties and structural integrity of concrete. Various dispersion techniques were evaluated, including sonication and surfactant-assisted dispersion, with an emphasis on achieving homogeneous distribution without compromising the structural integrity of CNT.
Through a series of experiments and analyses, the effectiveness of CNT in enhancing concrete performance was validated. The results demonstrated significant improvements in mechanical strength, durability, and volume stability, confirming the potential of CNT as a transformative agent in concrete technology. Additionally, the study investigated the compatibility of CNT with traditional admixtures, highlighting potential conflicts and developing guidelines for integrating CNT into concrete formulations.
Overall, this dissertation provides valuable insights into using CNT in concrete, paving the way for future advancements in construction and materials science. The study highlights the potential of nanotechnology to improve the performance and durability of concrete structures, but it also acknowledges the challenges of moving from CNT-enhanced cement paste to CNT-enhanced concrete. Key issues such as achieving uniform dispersion, enhancing performance, and managing compatibility with traditional admixtures are explored in depth. This balanced view shows both the benefits and the challenges, offering promising avenues for future research and practical applications.
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Details
| Item Type: |
University of Pittsburgh ETD
|
| Status: |
Unpublished |
| Creators/Authors: |
| Creators | Email | Pitt Username | ORCID  |
|---|
| Sun, Zhe | zhs42 | zhs42@pitt.edu | |
|
| ETD Committee: |
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| Date: |
7 January 2025 |
| Date Type: |
Publication |
| Defense Date: |
13 November 2024 |
| Approval Date: |
7 January 2025 |
| Submission Date: |
5 November 2024 |
| Access Restriction: |
No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately. |
| Number of Pages: |
137 |
| Institution: |
University of Pittsburgh |
| Schools and Programs: |
Swanson School of Engineering > Civil and Environmental Engineering |
| Degree: |
PhD - Doctor of Philosophy |
| Thesis Type: |
Doctoral Dissertation |
| Refereed: |
Yes |
| Uncontrolled Keywords: |
Concrete, Carbon Nanotubes, Compatibility |
| Date Deposited: |
07 Jan 2025 21:10 |
| Last Modified: |
07 Jan 2025 21:10 |
| URI: |
http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/id/eprint/47065 |
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