Advances in self-sensing cement-based composites containing nano materials for smart civil infrastructures

Self-sensing cement-based composites incorporating the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplates (GNPs) with dosages of 0.0 ~ 5.0 vol% are developed for their favourable properties. The mechanical behaviors, electrical conductivity, and piezoresistivity of these composites are investigated comprehensively. Furthermore, modification mechanisms of the CNTs and GNPs affect performances of these composites are explored in-depth. The results show that the absolute maximum FCR/stress sensitivity/strain sensitivity is reached up to 53 %/0.69 %·MPa−1/119.3 with content of the CNTs and GNPs is 3.0 vol%. Moreover, its compressive strength/ultimate strain/modulus of elasticity is achieved at 77.1 MPa/4800 με/23.4 GPa. Additionally, the stress/strain sensitivity and compressive strength are improved by 29.3 %/43.4 % and 7.9 % ~ 60.2 %, respectively, compared with the single CNTs or GNPs cement-based composites. Therefore, this composite is a potential sensing candidate for smart civil infrastructures.