Title:
Graphene Dynamics: Shaping Sustainable Concrete Solutions
Author(s):
Foley
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_S24_Foley.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/23/2024
Abstract:
Graphene, a revolutionary nanomaterial discovered only two decades ago, shows promise in transforming the concrete industry and other sectors. Its integration in concrete can substantially reduce global carbon emissions by about 2% by reducing the need for cement and reinforcement. Ongoing research efforts aim to refine production methods of graphene in various forms, for improved quality and cost efficiency. The research project described in this paper investigates whether adding graphene oxide (i.e., an aqueous form of graphene) as a water dispersed solution affects concrete's mechanical properties. Graphene-concrete cylinder specimens are tested in compression and indirect tension to measure their compressive and tensile strength. Along with the mechanical properties of graphene reinforced concrete, this paper investigates the sustainability benefits coming from implementing "flash graphene”, a production method that uses recycled sources like used tires as raw material. This will be conducted with the aid of OpenLCA, a life cycle analysis software. The results of this research raise awareness on the possible applications of graphene and its underlying benefits as a sustainable concrete additive, advancing the construction sector and other related industries, and driving the demands for a higher level of production and quality.