14 Molar Concentrations of Alkali-Activated Geopolymer Concrete

Abstract

The increase in construction activities due to economic and population growth has led to the higher demand and utilization of cement. But cement production leads to the pollution of the environment. Consequently, this study examines the utilization of both ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and corncob ash (CCA) as source materials in the production of geopolymer concrete (GPC). GGBFS was replaced by CCA in 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% respectively using Grade 30 (M30) mix design proportion. Alkaline liquids were prepared to obtain 14 molar concentrations and used to activate the source materials. Slump, density and compressive strength of GPC were determined and compared with Portland cement concrete (PCC). The research findings indicate that GPC has higher compressive strength than PCC. Based on the relationship between the compressive strength and the density, a model equation is established. And the equation is used to predict the compressive strength of GPC with respect to the density. Reprocessing of CCA and GBFS as emerging low-carbon footprints appears to be a feasible solution to the problem of environmental pollution.