Mechanical Characteristics of Cement Paste in the Presence of Carbon Nanotubes and Silica Oxide Nanoparticles: An Experimental Study

Considering the remarkable characteristics of nanomaterials, previous research studies investigated the effects of incorporating different types of these materials on improving the concrete properties. However, further studies are required to evaluate the complementary hybridization and synergistic influence of nanomaterials. In this research, the combined effect of adding nano silica particles (NS) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) on enhancing both the compressive and flexural strengths of the cement paste was investigated. Moreover, the morphology of the interface between cement paste and aggregates was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mixtures were prepared using three different portions of MWCNT and NS. Electron microscopy images indicated a uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the cement matrix, enhanced hydration reactions, and increased density. Based on the experiments’ outcomes, the combined utilization of silica and carbon nanomaterials in the cement paste did not necessarily result in the maximum compressive and flexural strengths. Furthermore, it was observed that the use of higher percentages of pristine NS in the absence of MWCNT can lead to further enhancement of strength properties of the cement paste.