Parametric studies on the workability and compressive strength properties of geopolymer concrete

Abstract

Geopolymer concrete is a booming technology in the construction industry. Much research is occurring in geopolymer concrete, as it emits low carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, is eco-friendly material and is an alternative for cement. This research mainly focuses on the use of fly ash based geopolymer concrete in ambient curing conditions and the use of manufactured sand due to the scarcity of natural sand. Mainly studies have evolved on the workability, setting time and compressive strength by the effect of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), manufactured sand (M-sand), alkaline activator solutions to binder ratio and the proportions of sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide (SS/SH) in geopolymer concrete and mortar. The experimental studies were carried out using nine geopolymer concrete mixes and the comparisons were made. The workability of concrete decreases by increasing the percentage of GGBFS, M-sand and the proportions of SS/SH whereas workability of concrete increases when increasing the alkaline liquid to binder ratio. The compressive strength of geopolymer mortar and concrete increases when the percentage of GGBFS and M-sand is increased, and it decreases by increasing the alkaline liquid content. There is no change in strength by decreasing the proportions of SS/SH.

Keywords

• compressive strength
• geopolymer
• ggbfs
• m-sand
• setting time
• workability