Geopolymer-based grinding stones utilizable in metal machining

Abstract

This article presents partial results of a project focused on the Research and development of new grinding tools fixed with hybrid binder based on inorganic polymers. The clay-slag geopolymer with corundum abrasive grains was first time used to prepare novel abrasive tools for metal grinding. The effect of brown and white corundum grains of different grain sizes and content has been investigated. The experiments performed on a rusted steel tube on a lathe along with subsequent scanning electron analysis (SEM) have confirmed the grinding properties of geopolymer grinding stones. The grinding traces detected by SEM analysis correspond to the incorporated amount of the abrasive and the size of the grain used. The results have proven that, in case of metal grinding, a geopolymer matrix can substitute for ceramic binder in grinding tools. The geopolymer grinding stones are an opportunity to sustainable development of a new generation of abrasive materials which utilize waste materials, save primary raw material resources and energy consumption and has a minimum impact on the environment.