Synthesis, characterization, and application of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide and its influence on rheology, microstructure, and mechanical strength of cement paste

Abstract

The present study is an attempt in disseminating the influence of graphene-based nanomaterials such as graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in cement composites. The improved Hummer's approach was employed to synthesise the GO and rGO. Various characterization techniques involving XRD, FTIR, TGA, TEM, and SEM were utilized to understand the crystalline structure, interlayer spacing, functional groups, and microstructure of GO and rGO nanoparticles and further nanomaterial-doped cement composites. Both GO and rGO were used as 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, and 0.05% by weight of cement. The influence of GO and rGO on rheology, workability, microstructure and mechanical strength were determined. The compressive test results indicated an improvement of compressive strength by 21.72% and 30.26% in 0.03% GO and 0.04% rGO cement composites respectively. The enhancement in physicochemical properties is attributed to the densification of microstructure with the GO and rGO usage in cement composites. Concrete workability, pumpability, and printability depend on rheological parameters such yield stress, viscosity, and thixotropy. The research paper highlights the significance of critical rheological parameters of cement with the addition of nanomaterials. The incorporation of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide into cement paste represents a promising avenue for enhancing the material's rheology, microstructure, and mechanical strength, with the potential to revolutionize the construction industry and pave the way for a new generation of high-performance, sustainable building materials.