Graphene-Based Nanomaterials for Strain Detection in Smart Concrete

The necessity to sustain structural integrity throughout the service life of a structure has driven extensive research in structural health monitoring (SHM) using various materials to enhance safety and durability. Graphene and its derivatives, including graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), have seen substantial SHM applications. In this paper, findings from various studies are critically reviewed to evaluate the efficacy of GO and rGO in SHM, specifically for strain detection in self-sensing concrete. It is found that GO and rGO, when dispersed well in the cementitious matrix, enhance concrete mechanical properties as a piezoelectric material, integrate with the cement microstructure, and enable non-destructive self-sensing, outperforming most existing self-sensing materials. Additionally, GO and rGO are effective energy dissipators, enhancing the fracture energy in concrete composites by reducing crack propagation. When appropriately proportioned, the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of these materials make them suitable for self-sensing material applications in smart concrete.