Lancaster University patents graphene-enhanced concrete with 30% less cement
Lancaster University has filed patents on a graphene oxide-enhanced concrete mix using 0.025 wt% graphene oxide that reaches 52 MPa compressive strength with 30% less Portland cement. The development indicates a scalable construction application for graphene oxide that could expand commercial demand for the material while reducing concrete's carbon footprint by 23% per cubic metre.
Lancaster University has patented a graphene-enhanced concrete formulation that reduces Portland cement content by 30% while achieving Class 50 strength. This innovative mix includes 0.025 weight percent graphene oxide as a nano-reinforcement, which is dispersed in the mix water before the binder is added. Testing demonstrated that the concrete cylinders reached a 28-day compressive strength of 52 MPa, compared to 41 MPa for controls without graphene. Additionally, CO2 footprint analysis indicates a 23% reduction per cubic meter of concrete.
Dr. Lisa Whittaker, the lead researcher, noted that the formulation is compatible with existing batching plants and requires no specialized equipment. Lancaster University is currently in discussions with three UK construction companies to conduct trial mixes at building sites. The university aims to begin commercial licensing of the formulation by early 2027.
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