Design and development of graphene oxide based concrete for superior strength, fire resistance and lower carbon footprint

Current work concerns with the optimization studies to decode the role of grapheme oxide (GO) concentration in designer mix concrete M30. Experimentally investigation has been carried out to decipher the role of GO in concrete during exposure to high temperature and fire conditions. The exposed concrete specimens were subjected to multi-spectrum analysis namely thermal analysis, weight loss, pore structure, heat transfer, crack generation and mechanical strength. Optimum compressive strength results were obtained at 0.05 wt% of GO concentration. GO plays critical role during exposure of GO concrete to high temperature and fire conditions, which resulted in fewer crack generation and delayed temperature rise during exposure to thermal load. Scanning electron microscopy analysis further corroborates the GO function in modifying the concrete microstructure and reducing the capillary pores to enhance the water retention ability of concrete to improve fire resistance. Studies revealed on addition of relatively small amounts of graphene oxide enhances the concrete strength; noticeably less cement could be needed to realize corresponding structural performance, consequently, presenting great potential to reduce the carbon footprint associated with mega infrastructure projects. (author)