Experimental Works on Geopolymer Concrete Composites: Destructive and Non-Destructive Testing

Abstract

The main theme of this research work is to study Geopolymer concrete (GPC) composites behavior when different binding materials in certain percentages are replaced completely with cement in order to analyse the mechanical properties and bonding between aggregates and Geopolymer paste. The term Geopolymer was coined by Professor Davidovits in 1978, a kind of inorganic polymer that can be prepared at room temperature by utilizing modern waste. Any material that contains for the most part silicon (Si) and Aluminium (Al) is a source material for the production of Geopolymer. Geopolymer is an inorganic polymer composites which is an eco-friendly sustainable product by replacing the conventional concrete such as Flyash, Ground Granulated Blast furnace slag (GGBS, Silica fume, Metakaolin(MK) and other siliceous materials are used as substitute binders to Portland cement. The properties of GPC have been studied in several researches due to its importance and ability to solve the problems of ordinary Portland cement. GGBS, MK and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) was used as replacement to cement and binder in Geopolymer concrete. The specimens are cured at ambient temperature condition. Mechanical properties of the GPC mix specimens are studied for different time ages (7days, 21days and 28days) and the strengths of the specimens were determined. Alkaline Activator Solutions are prepared in the molarities of 8, 10.