Investigation on permeability characteristics and microstructural analysis of concrete made with graphene oxide
摘要
Present research aimed to investigate the impact of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as partial replacement of cement on compressive strength, permeability and microstructural properties. The concrete mixes prepared with 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8% replacement of cement with rGO. Permeability properties were determined by water absorption, water permeability, initial surface absorption and rapid chloride penetration tests at 28, 56, and 90 curing days. Microstructure analysis performed by x- ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The results indicate that the increase in ratio of rGO enhances the compressive strength of concrete. The optimum ratio of replacement for compressive strength was found to be 0.2% with an improvement of 37.3, 34.09 and 32.91% at 28, 56 and 90 days of curing. The results indicate that water absorption, water penetration, initial surface absorption and chloride penetration reduced by 43.5, 56.39, 26.78 and 55.89% at 90 days of curing. The microstructural analysis revealed morphology is denser and compacted. Regression and analyses of variance were performed to establish correlation and analyze the difference between the means. Results of this investigation concluded that each mix containing rGO showed better strength and improved permeability as compared to control sample. Using rGO can be used in concrete to improve properties and leads toward sustainable construction.