The dispersion and influence of graphene-oxide-modified polycarboxylate superplasticiser in alkaline cement solution

The aggregation of graphene oxide (GO) in alkaline solutions is a critical factor that limits its potential applications in cement-based materials. In this study, a polycarboxylate superplasticiser (PCE) was employed as a dispersant and a GO–PCE water-reducing agent was synthesised through the method of dropwise addition. This synthesis approach not only preserved the water-reducing capabilities of PCE but also enhanced the dispersibility of GO in alkaline cement solutions. Furthermore, the synthesis method is straightforward. The results showed that that GO–PCE had excellent dispersion in a saturated calcium hydroxide (CH) solution. Furthermore, it was found that the GO–PCE enhanced the workability of cement, accelerated cement hydration, reduced the crystallite size of the CH and increased the compressive strength of the cement mortar.