Experimental and theoretical investigation of the influence of graphene oxide/nanozirconia on the mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer concrete

This study investigates the enhancement of geopolymer concrete (GPC) through the synergistic incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) and nanozirconia (NZ), aiming to improve its mechanical and functional properties for various construction applications. GPC is known for its high durability, excellent thermal stability, low shrinkage, and low permeability, contributing to its longevity and resistance to environmental factors. It also offers sustainability by utilizing industrial by-products like fly ash. The research explores how GO and NZ can further enhance these properties. Graphene oxide improves the microstructural integrity and mechanical strength of GPC due to its high surface area and load-bearing capacity. Nanozirconia increases thermal stability and chemical resistance, creating a denser and more durable matrix. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the incorporation of these nanomaterials. At optimal concentrations of 0.3% NZ and 0.3% GO with 49.201% fly ash, the GPC/NZ/GO composite exhibited a 50% increase in compressive strength compared to the control mix. Additionally, significant improvements were observed in flexural and splitting tensile strengths. The novelty of this research lies in the innovative combination of GO and NZ to develop a multifunctional geopolymer concrete with enhanced properties. By leveraging nanomaterial synergies and employing RSM for optimization, the study advances the understanding of high-performance geopolymer composites and offers valuable insights for their engineering in diverse applications.