ABSTRACT
Cementitious materials are widely used for underground infrastructure; however, the durability of underground structures is a challenge and frequent inspections and repairs are often needed. Over the last years, biomimetic materials have been developed that could self-diagnose their condition, adapt to their environment, develop immunity and self-heal. This research investigates experimentally the effect of carbon nanomaterials on the mechanical performance of cement mortars to be used in underground construction with an outlook that they can instigate additional functionalities such as self-sensing. These additives include carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene oxide (GO) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs). Their addition was found to reduce the fluidity of the mixes, whilst they had a limited impact on mechanical strength. The microstructure remained largely unaltered whilst porosity was improved slightly by some of the additives. This research paves the way in a preliminary understanding of the effect of different carbon nanomaterials on the properties of mortars for underground structures.
