Carbon fiber-based electrically conductive concrete for salt-free deicing of pavements

Percolation transition zone of carbon fiber in paste, mortar, and concrete were respectively 0.25-1% (Vol.), 0.6-1% (Vol.), and 0.5-0.75% (Vol.). Optimum fiber dosage in ECON with respect to conductivity was 0.75%, resulting in volume conductivity of 1.86 × 10−2 (S/cm) at 28 days and 1.22 × 10−2(S/cm) at 460 days of age. Electrical-energy-to-heat-energy conversion efficiency decreased from 66% at 28 days to 50% at 460-day age. The results showed that the studied technology could be effectively applied for ice/snow melting on pavement surfaces and provide a feasible alternative to traditional methods if the ECON mixing proportions and system configurations are made with necessary precautions.