Effect of the Addition of Graphene Oxide (GO) to Reactive Powder Concretes (RPC): Physical, Mechanical, and Microstructural Evaluation

Adjustments and changes in concrete formulations aim to improve physical and mechanical properties. This research analysed the influence of the addition of graphene oxide (GO) to reactive powder concretes (RPC) on their structure and properties. The addition of GO (0.025% and 0.050% by cement weight) resulted in significant improvements in the mechanical and microstructural properties of the RPC, increasing compressive (up to 19.14%) and flexural strength (up to 11.80%), as well as a reducing water absorption and porosity. Statistical analyses (ANOVA and Tukey's ad hoc test) confirmed the significance of the results. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed greater formation of C-S-H around the GO nanosheets, resulting in an increase of mechanical strength. It was concluded that the addition of GO helps the RPC allowing a greater homogeneity in the mixture, enhancing mechanical strength (up to around 130 MPa at 28 days of curing), and reducing the RPC porosity and water absorption.