Taguchi-integrated grey relational analysis for multi-response optimization of mix design for alkali-activated concrete

Abstract

Although alkali-activated concrete (AAC) has gained significant attention as a sustainable alternative to traditional Portland cement-based concrete due to its reduced carbon emissions and improved durability, optimizing AAC mix design still remains a challenging task as it involves complex interactions between various factors, constituent materials, and their proportions. This study presents the performance based multi-response optimization of alkali-activated concrete mix using Taguchi-integrated Grey Relational Analysis aiming for improved workability, mechanical and permeability properties. This study employs Taguchi’s L _9 orthogonal array to reduce the experimental trials, thereby saving time and resources. The Grey Relational Analysis optimizes factors like binder ratio, solution to binder (Al/b) ratio, and molarity of NaOH and Na _2 SiO _3 /NaOH ratio, encompassing alkali-activated concrete’s fresh, mechanical, and durability characteristics with structural grade properties. The results show that binder ratio (FA:GGBS) of 90:10, Al/b ratio of 0.45, 10 M NaOH solution with Na _2 SiO _3 /NaOH ratio of 1 has produced the optimum alkali-activated concrete mix of structural (M40) grade.

Keywords

• alkali-activated concrete
• Taguchi method
• orthogonal array
• grey relational analysis