Graphene-enhanced concrete shows solid results in early field trials, and cement manufacturers take notice

November 03, 2022 | Case Study

Nationwide Engineering (NE) collaborated with the University of Manchester (U.K.) Graphene Engineering Innovation Center over four years to develop a graphene-based liquid admixture that improves concrete’s physical and environmental properties. Early pilot projects showed that the admixture decreases concrete set times (achieving sufficient strength rapidly), increases compressive strength, and improves durability by reducing moisture permeation. To employ the graphene, concrete producers disperse the admixture in a concrete mixing truck at a ratio of 0.96 kg of graphene to 10 tonne of concrete (0.009%). NE has utilized this mixture in several build sites, including the floor of Southern Quarter gym and a suspended slab for a roller disco. These concrete pours have demonstrated no cracks or shrinkage to date and have confirmed the viability of reducing slab thickness with graphene-enhanced concrete.