Effect of mortar performance on optimal nano graphene plate use rate

This study aims to determine the effect of nano graphene plate (nGP) additives on mortar performance. Five different mortar mixtures with varying water/binder ratios were designed, and different amounts of nGP were added to investigate their physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties. The materials used in the study included cement, silica fume, quartz sand, and superplasticizer, with specific proportions of nGP incorporated into the mixtures for experimental tests. Experimental studies involved a flow table test to assess fresh mortar properties, while compressive strength, density, water absorption, and capillary water absorption tests were conducted on hardened mortarspecimens. Additionally,scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed to evaluate the microstructural developments of the mortars. The results showed that low concentrations of nGP (0.3% - 0.6%) improved the compressive strength and durability of the mortar, whereas concentrations of 1.2% and above resulted in a decrease in mechanical performance. Specifically, mixtures containing 0.6% nGP exhibited optimal strength. In mixtures containing silica fume and quartz sand, the addition of nGP was found to be more effective in enhancing strength and durability. In conclusion, the optimal usage of nano graphene plate in cementitious materials significantly influences mortar performance. This study provides valuable insights into the application of advanced nanomaterial additives in the field of civil engineering.