Abstract
Use of nano-silica is gaining wider attention due to its significant effect on the microstructural and mechanical properties of Portland cement based binders. Effects of the incorporation of nano-silica in fly ash based geopolymer binders have been investigated in this study. Low-calcium fly ash was used as the principal source of aluminosilicate and it was blended with either blast furnace slag or Portland cement at small percentages in order to accelerate the curing at room temperature. Nano-silica was used at a rate up to 3% of the total binder in order to understand its effect on the strength and microstructural development. The experimental results show that the strength and microstructural properties could be further developed with inclusion of nano-silica in geopolymer mixes. Compressive strength increased with the increase of nano-silica content up to 2%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed denser microstructures with well-connected interlocking morphology for the optimum nano-silica dosage. The strength increase is contributed by densification of the microstructure with the addition of nano-silica.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
