Electrical Resistivity and Joule Heating Characteristics of Cementitious Composites Incorporating Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes and Carbon Fibers

Abstract

This study investigates the electrical heating (also known as Joule heating) characteristics of cementitious composites containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) and carbon fibers (CF) as electrically conductive media in an attempt to develop an eco-friendly and sustainable solution to snow and ice removal on roadway pavements during the winter season. Various dosages of CNT and CF between 0 and 1.0% (by weight of cement) were tested to find the optimum mixture proportions that yield high-energy and efficient electrical-heating performance with superior mechanical properties. The electrical properties were characterized by measuring the electrical resistivity and temperature rise when attached to a power source. Furthermore, this study examined how the crack width affects the electrical resistivity of cementitious composites containing CNT and/or CF. Compressive and flexural strengths were also measured at different ages of 1, 3, 7, and 28 days to identify how the additions of CNT and CF affect the mechanical properties. Results have shown that adding CF in combination with CNT substantially reduces the electrical resistivity and, in turn, improves the heating performance, as CFs further densify the electrically conductive network in the hydrated matrix; adding either CNT or CF alone was not an effective option to enhance the electrical characteristics. The findings of this study are expected to provide essential information for the design and construction of an electrically heated concrete pavement system with promoted energy efficiency, which will offer a promising solution to enhance winter road maintenance, improve public safety, and provide substantial social cost savings.