Effects of few layers graphene addition, aggregate size, and water acidity on the compressive strength and morphology of cellular lightweight concrete

Abstract

Cellular Lightweight Concrete (CLC) with the addition of Few Layers Graphene (FLG) has been fabricated and characterized for canal blocks application. The CLC-FLG composite was made by mixing fine agregate (sand), cement, fly ash, water, and FLG. The compressive strength properties of the composite was tested using a digital compressive strength test to determine the effects of FLG addition, sand size gradations, and environmental acidity on the compressive strength of the composite. Meanwhile, the composite morphology was examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The increase in FLG content and concentrations increased the compressive strength. The highest compressive strength was shown by the composite with the highest FLG addition (15%) and without sand size gradation, namely 5.19 Mpa or there was an increase of 15.6% compared to CLC without the addition of FLG. The level of water acidity relatively did not affected the compressive strength of CLC-FLG composite. Morphological analysis showed that the addition of FLG resulted in a denser structure and reduced porosity of CLC. The CLC-FLG composite can be used as canal blocks materials for peatland restoration.