Effect of modifying concrete with multi-walled carbon nanotubes on stress-strain behavior
Researchers at Kyiv Aviation Institute published a review of 2021–2026 experimental studies on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in reinforced concrete, finding that dosages of 0.05–0.15% by weight of binder increase crack initiation moment by 20–42% and reinforcement bond strength by 16–35%. The findings support broader use of carbon nanotubes as a concrete additive, with identified synergistic effects when combined with fiber reinforcement or micro-fillers offering a pathway to more ductile structural composites.
A recent study published in the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science examines the impact of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the stress-strain characteristics of reinforced concrete structures. Conducted by researchers from State University «Kyiv Aviation Institute», the study systematically analyzes experimental data from 2021 to early 2026, focusing on the transition of nanotechnology from laboratory-scale to full-scale structural applications.
The research highlights that incorporating MWCNTs in dosages of 0.05–0.15% by weight of the binder can increase the crack initiation moment by 20–42%. This enhancement surpasses the corresponding increase in ultimate load-bearing capacity, which ranges from 10–25%. Additionally, the study confirms that MWCNTs improve the specific fracture energy of structures, shifting failure modes from brittle to quasi-plastic.
The role of MWCNTs in strengthening the bond between reinforcement and concrete is also significant, with improvements ranging from 16–35%. This enhancement leads to reduced crack opening width and better stress redistribution in the tension zone. The paper identifies two synergistic effects: a 'structural' synergy when MWCNTs are combined with dispersed fiber reinforcement, and a 'material' synergy when paired with micro-fillers, both contributing to enhanced matrix performance.
Source: Carbon Nanotubes Feed