Enhancing Multifunctional Properties of Geopolymer Composites through Graphene Oxide Incorporation: Insights from Thermoelectric, Microstructural, and Mechanical Analysis

Abstract:

Despite growing interest in geopolymers-graphene oxide (GO) composites for energy-responsive construction materials, quantitative correlations between thermoelectric performance, thermal properties, density, and mechanical behavior remain limited, and the optimal GO loading that balances multifunctional performance has not been clearly established. In this study, fly ash–based geopolymer composites incorporating GO (0-2 g) were systematically investigated to elucidate thermoelectric, microstructural, and mechanical responses. The results show that moderate GO incorporation establishes conductive networks that improve both charge and heat transfer while enhancing matrix densification and interfacial bonding. Significant increases in the Seebeck coefficient and thermoelectric voltage were observed, suggesting improved charge-carrier transport and thermoelectric conversion efficiency. SEM-EDS images showed a denser, more homogeneous matrix with reduced porosity, while mechanical tests revealed greater toughness and ductility due to crack-bridging and nanosheet pull-out mechanisms. In contrast, excessive GO addition caused agglomeration and reduced matrix cohesion. The GO incorporation significantly enhances thermal conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, indicating improved heat and charge transport through conductive GO networks. Consequently, the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) increased nearly fourfold. Conversely, the specific heat capacity (C_p) slightly decreased, reflecting reduced lattice heat storage due to matrix densification. The optimal GO content (approximately 1 g) achieved the best balance between mechanical integrity and thermal–electrical performance. These findings establish clear structure-property-performance relationships and demonstrate the potential of GO-modified geopolymers as multifunctional and energy-responsive materials for advanced construction and thermoelectric applications.

• Periodical: Materials Science Forum (Volume 1197)
• Pages: 93-105
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-VI6Wci
• Online since: July 2026
• Authors: Agus Susanto*, Abdul Haris, Muhammad Saleh
• Keywords: Geopolymer Composite, Graphene Oxide, Mechanical Performance, Microstructure, Multifunctional Properties, Thermoelectric

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