Analysis of the dispersion of multi-walled carbon Nanotubes with different dispersing admixtures

ABSTRACT

The incorporation of nanomaterials in cementitious composites has become more and more frequent and has, as one of the main objectives, to promote improvements to the mechanical and microstructural properties. Among the various existing nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes (CNT) stand out due to their high resistance, mainly to traction, and the high capacity of elastic deformation. However, one of the impasses in its use is the difficulty of achieving an effective and stable dispersion, but research shows that the use of additives contributes to the de-agglomeration of the nanomaterial. Thus, this work evaluated the influence of two types of superplasticizers (SPA and SPB), added in the proportion of 1: 0 to 1: 3 (MWCNT: SP), in a sonicated solution for 5 minutes. The results showed that the SPB additive was the one that best provided a better dispersion with less consumption. Portland cement pastes were also produced and it was found that the MWCNT reduced the consistency of the pastes and that the insertion of additives helped to reduce this effect. Finally, it appears that the additive, in addition to improving the dispersion of the MWCNT, also interacts with Portland cement, promoting pastes with greater spread.

Keywords
Carbon nanotube; dispersion; superplasticizers