Researchers from RMIT University and the University of Melbourne have conducted a study investigating the effects of graphene oxide on the printability and compressive properties of 3D-printed concrete. The addition of graphene oxide, a nanomaterial commonly used in batteries and electronic gadgets, was found to increase the strength of the concrete by up to 10%. The research, published in Additive Manufacturing Letters, highlights the potential for creating smart buildings with walls that can act as sensors to detect and monitor small cracks.
The current methods for detecting cracks in concrete structures, such as ultrasonic or acoustic sensors, are non-destructive but are only effective for detecting larger cracks. Detecting smaller cracks early on remains a challenge, particularly for monitoring large structures such as bridges or tall buildings. However, the addition of graphene oxide to concrete structures introduces the possibility of an electrical circuit, enabling the detection of structural issues, temperature changes, and other environmental factors.
Professor Jonathan Tran, the research supervisor from RMIT University, expressed excitement about the potential of graphene oxide in making 3D-printed concrete more viable in the construction industry. This could have positive impacts on cost and sustainability. Traditional concrete structures require formwork, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and generates significant waste. In contrast, 3D-printed concrete saves time, money, and labor, and allows for the creation of more complex structures while reusing construction waste in cement-based materials.
One concern with 3D-printed concrete is the potential for weaker bonds between each layer. However, the researchers found that the addition of graphene oxide made the concrete easier to extrude, resulting in better inter-layer bonding and increased strength. Graphene oxide has functional groups on its surface that act as “sticky spots,” allowing it to form stronger bonds with other materials like cement. These bonds enhance the overall strength of the concrete.
The research tested two dosages of graphene oxide in the cement mixture and found that the lower dosage (0.015% of the weight of cement) resulted in stronger concrete than the higher dosage (0.03% of the weight of cement). It is important to find the right balance in the amount of graphene oxide added, as too much can disrupt the concrete’s balance and affect its workability, printability, and durability. Excessive graphene oxide can hinder the flow of concrete and create weak spots, reducing its overall strength.
The next phase of the research will focus on studying the electrical conductivity of graphene oxide in concrete and assessing its potential as a smart material. This advancement could revolutionize the construction industry, allowing for the creation of smart walls that can detect and monitor cracks, temperature changes, and other structural issues. Although further research is needed to determine if graphene oxide concrete can match or exceed the strength of traditionally cast concrete, the current findings present promising possibilities for the future of construction materials.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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