Advances in multifunctional graphene-geopolymer composites

Geopolymer is one of the alternatives to Portland cement for civil infrastructures. In the past years, geopolymer-based composites of enhanced mechanical and electrical behaviors have been fabricated by incorporating a small amount of graphene and its derivatives. In addition to the improved safety and sustainability, the synthesized graphene-geopolymer composites (GGCs) possess functionalities for future infrastructures, such as self-condition monitoring, energy harvesting and storage, environmental cleaning, etc. This work revisits the recent researches on GGCs, which includes the dispersion of graphene and its derivatives in aqueous media, composites fabrication, characterization of mechanical, electrical and smart features of obtained composites. Attention is also paid to the geopolymerization process, reduction of graphene oxide in alkaline condition, and mechanisms responsible for performance enhancement. Though promising results have been achieved in the GGCs technology, current investigations are still in the laboratory level. Challenges and perspectives are discussed to facilitate further investigation on this type of innovative composites. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Geopolymer is an alternative to Portland cement for civil infrastructures, with enhanced mechanical and electrical behaviors achieved by incorporating graphene. The synthesized graphene-geopolymer composites possess functionalities for future infrastructures, but current investigations are still in the laboratory level, facing challenges for further research.