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  Graphene oxide/cement composites for sprayed concrete tunnel linings

  This research investigates the potential use of nanotechnology for sprayed concrete applications. It focuses on the use of an emerging graphene oxide (GO)/cement composite material. GO is reported to enhance the rate of hydration, improve mechanical properties and resistance to aggressive environments and instigate a self-sensing mechanism of the cement matrix. Due to the improvement in mechanical and durability properties even at very small dosages, this nano-level reinforcement has a vast potential to substitute macro-fibre reinforcement and lead to thinner, stronger and more durable tunnel linings. This paper discusses the feasibility of using a GO/cement composite for Sprayed Concrete Linings (SCL) with two major focuses. Firstly, the economic, commercial, sustainability and resource viability assessment of this emerging material is conducted. The insights gained from extensive industry engagement in the UK are presented, including key opportunities and challenges for this emerging material. Secondly, technical aspects of the composite are discussed, including experimental results of the most efficient dispersion method of graphene oxide in the cement matrix. The experimental work includes rheology testing, isothermal calorimetry, compressive strength testing and micro-indentation. The results confirm an increase in viscosity with the addition of GO along with an increase in compressive strength and an acceleration in the rate of hydration. The addition of a polycarboxylate superplasticiser and sonication of the solution prior to addition in the cement is proven to result in better dispersion.

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