Three-dimensional finite element modelling for influence of reduced graphene oxide on cracking index of mass mortar blocks due to heat of hydration

ABSTRACT This research investigates the impact of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the temperature gradient and associated stresses of mass mortar blocks. When the thermal stresses induced by the temperature gradient between the core of mass mortar or concrete blocks and their surfaces exceed the tensile strength of the concrete, cracking can occur. The measurements of temperature evolution at several locations in two mortar blocks with dimensions of 0.48 m x 0.41 m x 0.68 m are obtained from the literature. The first block was cast with a reference mix (REF) which contains only ordinary Portland cement, whereas the cement was replaced by 1.2% rGO for the other block. A finite element simulation of the two blocks was carried out and the measured temperature evolution was captured with a reasonable precision. Subsequently, numerical simulation was used to investigate the influence of rGO on the temperature rise and the associated potential of cracking in the mass mortar blocks with dimensions of 1 m x 1 m x 1 m and 2 m x 2 m x 2 m. It is noted that the rGO has a significant effect on reducing the the cracking indices of mass mortar blocks.