Abstract
Multiwalled carbon nanotubes were functionalized by polyvinyl alcohol in order to synthesize potential additive for concrete to improve mechanical properties. The obtained nanostructure was characterized structurally and surface morphologically by various techniques. These techniques revealed the success of the functionalization process in preparation of the strengthening additive. The mechanical characterization of the concrete composite obtained by the addition of the strengthening additive was performed by the compressive strength method. The results show significant positive effects of the synthesized additive material on the mechanical properties of the prepared concrete composite over the reference material. The novelty of this work is the use of the Fischer esterification reaction for the preparation of the strengthening additives for concrete using polyvinyl alcohol and multiwalled carbon nanotubes.