C–S–H/polyaniline nanocomposites prepared by in situ polymerization

Synthesis and characterization of a new cement-based polymer nanocomposite is reported. Calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) was prepared in the presence of aniline monomer followed by in situ polymerization to increase the degree of interaction between inorganic and organic phases. Two stoichiometrically different C–S–H systems were used. The properties of the C–S–H/polyaniline materials were studied using several analytical techniques including SEM, XRD, TGA, 29Si MAS NMR and FTIR. It is suggested that the in situ polymerization method can effectively be employed for producing a C–S–H/Polymer nanocomposite. The extent of molecular interaction with the polymer depends on the chemical composition of the C–S–H. Production of a new range of polymer-modified cement-based systems having improved environmental stability and mechanical performance is promising.