Enhancing the mechanical properties and hydration of cement paste by incorporating GO/nano In(OH)3 composite with high specific surface area

Graphene oxide (GO) is an ideal two-dimensional material for enhancing the flexural strength and toughness of cement-based materials due to its exceptionally large theoretical specific surface area and Young's modulus. However, the smooth surface of GO results in weak bonding with the cement matrix. Additionally, GO has a tendency to agglomerate in cement paste, resulting in significant decreases in its specific surface area and its beneficial effect in cement-based materials. In this paper, GO modified by nano In(OH)3 (IGOs) was successfully prepared for improving its specific surface area, dispersion and bonding with the cement matrix. These improvements were achieved by utilizing urea and sodium citrate as nanoparticle stabilizers to adjust the pH of solution. Furthermore, the optimal compositions of IGO material as described above and its effects were identified through investigating the impact of IGOs on the cement paste.