Characteristics of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer with Cathode Ray Tube Glass

Abstract

Geopolymers can be treated as an environmentally friendly alternative for concrete and enables utilization of various wastes. This paper focuses on the possibility of application of discarded cathode ray tube (CRT) glass inside a metakaolin-based geopolymer in the form of an aggregate, providing an ecological method of recycling of this hazardous material. The main goal of this paper was to develop an optimal composition of a new geopolymer and to describe its behavior under varying curing conditions. A geopolymer made of different mixtures was subjected to flexural and compressive strength tests. The density, mass loss, temperature changes, and metals leaching were determined as well. The results demonstrated that neither the content of CRT glass nor the curing regime has a significant influence on the mechanical behavior. However, the strength of the geopolymer containing 50% CRT glass by mass increased with time in contrast to a geopolymer with a higher CRT glass content. The development of temperature inside the mixture was dependent on the amount of metakaolin. The concentration of toxic metals in an aqueous extract decreased considerably after the encapsulation of CRT glass inside the geopolymer. The presented results indicate that discarded CRT glass can be considered an aggregate for a metakaolin-based geopolymer. The new material shows high strength and makes the CRT glass safe for the environment.