Non-covalent interface engineering of multi-layer graphene cement composites using graphene oxide

To address the critical demand for early strength in modern construction, this study proposes a novel MLGs/GO (multi-layer graphene/graphene oxide) nanocomposite system to synergistically enhance the early performance of cement mortar. Experimental results demonstrate that the optimized mixture (1.0% MLGs +0.025% GO) significantly improves mechanical properties, achieving a 7-day compressive strength of 46.91 MPa-an increase of over 58% compared to mortar with MLGs alone. The incorporation of GO effectively disperses MLGs, promotes the formation of key hydration products (CH, C-S-H, and AFt), and refines the microstructure. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that GO introduces strong non-covalent interactions at the interface, replacing weak van der Waals forces and optimizing stress transfer between MLGs and the C-S-H matrix. These findings provide a clear multiscale mechanism for the synergistic enhancement and offer practical guidance for designing high-performance, early-strength cementitious materials.