Feasibility of incorporating graphene oxide in red mud-modified concrete: An experimental investigation

Graphene oxide (GO) has shown significant potential to improve the mechanical and durability performance of cementitious materials through the refined microstructure and enhanced hydration. However, its expensive nature and poor dispersibility limit its practical application. This study aimed to evaluate the synergistic application of GO and red mud (RM), an industrial by-product, to formulate a resource-efficient and economically viable concrete. Eight concrete mixtures containing 10% RM with varying GO dosages (0-0.07% by weight of cement) were investigated for mechanical, durability, microstructure, economy, and environmental performance. The optimum mixture containing 10% RM and 0.07% GO (RG7) exhibited an increase of 25%, 33%, and 35% in compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths, respectively, compared with the control concrete. It also showed significantly lower water absorption and sorptivity, better resistance to acid and sulfate attack, and a denser microstructure with improved hydration products. Despite the inclusion of GO, the combined use of RM resulted in the most favorable economy index, as well as lower embodied energy and global warming potential than conventional concrete. The results demonstrate that the synergistic incorporation of RM and GO offers a promising approach for developing durable, cost-effective, and more sustainable concrete while simultaneously reducing cement consumption.