Comprehending the role played by graphene nanoribbons in modulating the conductivity and self-sensing properties of cementitious composites

Abstract

Graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) possess superior electrical properties due to their unique structures, making them increasingly valuable in composite materials. This study investigated the ability of GNRs to serve as nano-reinforcing agents that modify the electrical and self-sensing properties of cementitious composites compared to conventional nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Because they are highly dispersible in alkaline environments, GNRs can form effective conductive networks within a cement matrix. Incorporating 0.05 wt% GNRs into a cementitious composite significantly reduced the electrical resistivity of the sample after 28 d of curing by 64.61 % compared to the control sample. After drying, its electrical resistivity was still 42.82 % lower than that of the control sample. Furthermore, the GNRs-incorporated sample (dry state) exhibited a remarkable 63.65 % fractional change in resistivity when subjected to cyclic compressive stress. These results suggest that GNRs hold significant potential for enhancing the electrical and self-sensing properties of cementitious composites.