Reinforcing mechanisms review of the graphene oxide on cement composites

By virtue of the abundant oxygen-functional groups, ultra-high specific surface area and superior mechanical properties, graphene oxide (GO) has been proven as one of the outstanding candidates in cement composites. Compared with the traditional cement pastes, the GO-reinforced cement composites exhibit benefits in pore structure, mechanical properties, and durability. In addition, the abundant oxygen-containing functional groups on GO can promote the hydration rate of cement and combine with hydration products to fill the pores. To further improve the performance of GO-reinforced cement composites and promote the application of composites in practical engineering, it is necessary to comprehensively understand the reinforcing mechanisms of GO on cement composites. In this work, the enhancement mechanisms of GO to improve hydration, nucleation effects, mechanical strengthening mechanisms, antiseepage mechanisms and pore-filling effects of GO are systematically revealed. The optimal dosage range of GO mixing in the current study is calculated by considering the factors of mechanical property and microscopic characterization, but the economic cost also needs to be considered in future development studies. This review will promote the application of the more cost-effective and high-performance GO-reinforced cement composites in practical construction engineering.