Effect of mineral admixtures on the performance of self-compacting geopolymer concrete

Abstract

Self-Compacting Geopolymer Concrete (SCGC) emerges as a groundbreaking construction material in the domain of concrete technology. This method integrates supplementary cementitious materials (SCM), alkaline solutions like sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate, and a superplasticizer to form a binder for matrix development and strength enhancement, thereby eliminating the need for compaction.In the present study, fly ash-based Self- Compacting Geopolymer Concrete (SCGC) was substituted with varying proportions of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS). Concrete specimens were subjected to curing under both oven and ambient conditions to assess their performance.The investigation unveiled that incorporating GGBS into fly ash-based SCGC resulted in reduced workability alongside improved strength with increasing binder content. Notably, SCGC samples cured at 70°C for 24 hours with a 50% replacement of GGBS emerged as the optimal proportion, meeting the required workability standards. However, surpassing this threshold led to a further enhancement in mechanical properties albeit at the expense of reduced workability.

Keywords

• self compacting concrete
• geopolymer concrete
• alkaline activator
• curing
• supplemental cementitious materials
• workability