Toward low-carbon cementitious mixtures with the application of carbon-based nanomaterials

Carbon-based nanomaterials have gained substantial interest for application in cementitious mixtures. These nanomaterials can modify the microstructure of cementitious mixtures and improve their engineering properties such as their strength and durability. The strength enhancement has significant implications for the concrete industry as it can compensate for the strength reductions caused by high replacement levels of Portland cements with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) or by incorporation of low-grade SCMs, allowing reduction of the carbon footprint of cementitious mixtures. This project aims to study the effects of three carbon-based nanomaterials namely, CNFs produced by our industry partner, Carbonova corporation, and commercially available CNTs and GO to produce low-carbon cementitious mixtures. It benefits Carbonova by advancing their sustainable market development in cement and concrete industry. The results will be of use to modify their CNFs for higher compatibility with cementitious mixtures. Additionally, the comparison among carbon-based nanomaterials provides insights for their product development.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rahil Khoshnazar

Student:

Partner:

Carbonova

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Calgary

Program: