Development of hydrophobic graphenoid layer on portland cement for non-thermal plasma method

Abstract

This study focuses on the development of hydrophobic layer on Portland cement using graphenoid materials to enhance impermeability and hydrophobicity. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that characteristic peaks associated with concrete remained intact, indicating the presence of phases such as ettringite, calcium hydroxide, calcite, and more. Remarkably, the application of graphenoid material produced by non-thermal plasma resulted in the formation of carbonaceous structures with minimal impact on the overall cement structure. Raman spectroscopy provided detailed insights into the composition, highlighting the presence of specific and indicating boundary defects. Moreover, contact angle measurements confirmed a substantial increase in hydrophobicity for the graphene-coated cement, with an average angle of 117° +/- 4.72° demonstrated graphenoid material layers deposited over structural defects, effectively waterproofing and enhancing local hydrophobicity.