Fresh and hardened properties of GGBS-contained cementitious composites using graphene and graphene oxide

Abstract

The addition of nanomaterials affects the workability of cementitious composites by reducing the free water available within the mixtures. In order to address this issue, the present study intends to study the addition of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) in cementitious materials containing graphene (G) and graphene oxide (GO). An experimental program is considered to measure fresh properties, compressive strength, and service life of cementitious composites. Dosages of 0.03% and 0.06% (by weight of cement) of G and GO are tested in cement pastes and mortars. GGBS in three different dosages of 15%, 30%, and 45% is investigated. A constant water/cement ratio of 0.35 is used in all mixtures. Results show that GGBS improves the yield stress and plastic viscosity of G- and GO-modified cementitious composites. Moreover, GGBS dosages of 30% and 45% compensate the reduced fluidity of 0.03 wt% of G- and GO-modified cementitious composites, respectively. The thixotropy of the composite paste containing GO decreases with the addition of GGBS. Moreover, comparable and slightly improved compressive strengths are obtained for mixtures containing GGBS. The results from the nomogram show a promising trend for the service life of mixtures containing G, GO, and GGBS.