SELF-HEALING & SELF-SENSING
NANO-COMPOSITE CONSERVATION MORTARS
OBJECTIVES & WORK PACKAGES
WORK PACKAGE 1
Development of nano-composite mortars with piezo-resistive properties
Qualitative characterization and surface modification of carbon nanostructures for attributing hydrophilic properties and thus, better dispersion in the binder matrix.
Evaluation of electric properties in aqueous dispersions with impedance spectroscopy (IS) studies. Evaluation of nano-composite conservation mortars and grouts through hydration, microstructure (rheology, setting, permeability, porosity) and mechanical properties studies.
Piezoelectric behavior under cyclic and progressive loading, correlated with microstructure and physical characteristics of conservation mixtures. Study of corrosion behavior in artificial weathering cycles.
WORK PACKAGE 2
Development of nano-composite conservation mortars with self-healing properties
Feasibility study of various inorganic additives that can be used as healing agents and development of micro-encapsulated phases with self-healing action. Encapsulation of selected additives for developing different types of core/shell additives, able of triggering self-healing reactions and repairing micro-structural defects in conservation mortars. Study of rheological properties, incorporation, distribution, adhesion of core/shell additives in liquid mixtures and hardened specimens. Mechanical properties and self-healing capacity of conservation mortars that incorporate self-healing additives
WORK PACKAGE 3
Direct synthesis of carbon nanotubes on clinker and pozzolan particles
Development of carbon nanotubes in cement granules and natural pozzolan particles (d <75μm), by deposition of mineral salts of transition elements (Co, Ni, Fe) by the method of wet impregnation, aiming at the optimal morphology and maximum growth efficiency of CNTs by the CVD method. Bimetallic catalysts will also be tested to increase the efficiency of the nanotubes production. Development of dry dispersions of CNTs with cement and pozzolan particles, in order to avoid agglomeration of carbon nanoparticles due to Van der Waals forces during wet mixing.
WORK PACKAGE 4
Compatibility, performance, environmental impact and sustainability aspects
Establishment of compatibility and performance criteria for nano-composite and self-healing conservation mortars, based on relevant ethics, National Technical Specifications and European standards. Field-evaluation of nano-composite and self-healing conservation mortars, based on their performance requirements and expected functionalities. The results will be presented in a dedicated scientific conference and workshop. Economic, technical and environmental impact assessment studies, using the ABC (Activity Based Costing) method. The carbon (CO2) footprint of the materials produced will be calculated based on the standard PAS2050 methodology.