The effect of materials and curing system on the behavior of self-compacting geopolymer concrete

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to investigate and achieve the optimum compressive strength of self-compacting geopolymer concrete (SCGC). Fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) are used at different ratios as binder materials to produce the SCGC mixes. Alkaline solution was a mix of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide. Three different ratios of binder materials were used to produce SCGC (0FA-100GGBFS; 50FA-50GGBFS; and 100FA-0GGBFS). The total binder weight was 500 kg/m3 within a constant alkali–binder proportion (0.5). Two curing conditions were used, at ambient environment and heat curing at 110°C for 24 h. The compressive strength and fresh properties of SCGC are evaluated. The compressive strength is utilized to demonstrate the mechanical properties of SCGC. The compressive strength is investigated at two ages (7 and 28 days). The results showed that the use of GGBFS had a negative effect on the fresh properties of SCGC. However, it has a significant impact on the mechanical behavior of the SCGC. SCGC’s early strength is heavily involved in heat curing. The compressive strength of 100% GGBFS in the ambient environment after 28 days was more than that of GGBFS cured at 110°C. The optimum eco-friendly mix is 50FA-50GGBFS.

Keywords

• self-compacting geopolymer concrete
• curing condition
• binder materials