Micro-mechanical behavior and high temperature performance of graphene nanoplatelet modified geopolymers

The rapid increase in population and consumption brings with it a need in the field of construction, as in every field. In order to leave a more livable world to future generations, meeting this need by building more environmentally friendly structures is one of the most important duties of us civil engineers. Today, the widespread use of Portland cement concrete cannot fully meet this need due to the emission of 𝐶𝑂2 and harmful greenhouse gases. As an alternative to Portland cement concrete, the use of environmentally friendly geopolymer concretes, which emit less 𝐶𝑂2, use recyclable waste materials as binders instead of cement, and require less energy, provides advantages that cannot be ignored in terms of both environmental pollution and cost. Geopolymer concrete is used in many areas other than the construction industry, such as mining, military, waste management; It will contribute greatly to achieving the goal and ideal of obtaining high added value, original, innovative, durable, energy efficient and technological end products. Certain standards need to be established in order to increase the use of geopolymer concrete, which will become widespread over time. More research and data are needed to establish these standards. Within the scope of this study, geopolymer mortars based on metakaolin and blast furnace slag modified by graphene nanoplatelets and then, their micro-structural related mechanical properties and the high-temperature performance were investigated. Furthermore, the flexural load induced cracks of the composites were also analysed using by digital image technique and Fractal Concept for the further understanding of the damage behaviour.