Development of high-strength geopolymer mortar based on fly ash-slag: Correlational analysis of microstructural and mechanical properties and environmental assessment

Abstract

Given the insufficient mechanical performance of existing fly ash-based geopolymer mortars under ambient curing conditions, this study is dedicated to developing a high-strength geopolymer mortar that meets the requirements of modern structural engineering. Based on the rheological performance tests of the fresh geopolymer mortar, the evolution of its rheological characteristics was revealed. Through macroscopic mechanical performance tests, the influence of slag content on the compressive and flexural strength of geopolymer mortar was clarified. Employing microstructural performance testing methods such as Thermogravimetric and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry, the micro-mechanisms behind the improvement of mechanical properties were revealed. Utilizing the grey relational analysis method, a framework was established to analyze the correlation between the microstructural and macroscopic mechanical properties of geopolymer mortar. Additionally, an assessment system for evaluating environmental and economic benefits was developed using statistical analysis methods. The results show that increasing slag content enhances the yield stress and plastic viscosity of geopolymer mortar. Optimizing slag content boosts the compressive strength of fly ash-based geopolymer mortar, reaching up to 88.13 MPa under ambient curing conditions. An optimal amount of slag also promotes gel formation during polymerization, improving the internal pore structure. Furthermore, the content of reaction products correlates more strongly with macroscopic mechanical properties than pore structure characteristics. Geopolymer mortar also presents significant environmental and economic advantages over traditional cement-based materials, with its carbon and economic intensity indices at only 5.50 % and 10.80 %, respectively, of those in cement-based materials.