The effects of Graphene Oxide addition on hydration process, crystal shapes, and microstructural transformation of Ordinary Portland Cement

Abstract

In this study, Graphene Oxide (GO) is used as a reinforcing material to strengthen cement composites. GO has great potential in modifying properties of traditional cementitious materials. Several researchers have suggested their views on mechanical properties and microstructural behaviour of GO reinforced cement composites. In this study, characterization of GO-cement composite is done to investigate the interaction, mechanical strength, and thermal behaviour by reinforcing GO at several percentages. The effects of GO percentage addition on cement hydration, formation process, and crystal shapes of hydrated cement were investigated. Microstructural developments such as XRF, SEM, XRD, FTIR, and TGA tests have been reported to determine GO interaction with Ordinary Portland Cement. Improved mechanical properties, non-evaporable water content, hydration rate have been observed by incorporating GO in cement composites. The results obtained would suggest scope for understanding the reinforcement mechanism of GO and provides potential as a Nano-reinforcing material in cement composites.