Development of conductive graphite concrete

This work investigated the effect of electrical conductivity by influence of graphite powder in concrete. Materials used were OPC and graphite as binder, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate, superplasticizer and water. Graphite is replaced as binder from 0 to 12.5% with the increment of 2.5%. Mixes were prepared with the ratio of 1:1.75:3.5 and water binder ratio as 0.38. Totally 6 combinations of concrete were prepared, one as a control mix and 5 mixes with varying graphite content from 2.5 to 12.5% by weight of cement. Flowability behaviour, Compressive strength, Flexural strength, split tensile strength and Electrical conductivity of conductive concrete were assessed. Addition of graphite powder in concrete reduces flowability parameter but, its strength behaviour shows increasing trend initially up to 5% graphite, further incorporation of graphite declines the strength parameter of conductive concrete. Electrical conductivity showed the rising pattern with the utilization of graphite replacement in concrete.