Carbon-Coated Sand in Cement Composites for Smart and Multifunctional Construction Materials: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Civil Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Smart cementitious composites offer advanced functionalities like self-healing and sensing.
• Traditional composites lack enhanced electrical, thermal, and chemical resistance properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of carbon-coated sand (CCS) as a novel additive in cement composites.
• To highlight CCS's role in enhancing mechanical strength, conductivity, and multifunctionality.
• To explore challenges and future directions for CCS in smart cementitious materials.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on carbon-coated sand synthesis and properties.
• Analysis of CCS integration in cementitious composites.
• Evaluation of enhanced mechanical, electrical, and thermal characteristics.

Main Results:

• Carbon-coated sand significantly improves mechanical strength and electrical conductivity.
• CCS incorporation leads to enhanced thermal stability and durability.
• Development of self-sensing and self-healing cementitious materials is enabled by CCS.

Conclusions:

• Carbon-coated sand is a promising additive for next-generation smart cement composites.
• CCS contributes to sustainability and energy efficiency in construction.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize CCS applications.