Geopolymers based on calcined tunisian clays: Effects of alkaline solution on vibrational spectra and mechanical properties

Abstract

The effects of alkaline solution and calcined clays on vibrational spectra and mechanical properties were studied on geopolymer samples prepared from two alkaline solutions, calcined clays and three metakaolins. Structural evolution of the prepared geopolymers was characterized using FTIR spectroscopy and compression tests. Our results indicated high positive correlation between reactivity and compressive strength of the studied samples. Commercial potassium silicate and laboratory prepared k-silicate solutions were used to assess their effects on the prepared geopolymers. It was also observed that various secondary phases appeared, causing a slight change in the species' reactivity. Finally, it was concluded that changing alkaline solution and calcined clays decreased the mechanical properties, but increased the FTIR shift values. However, further work is needed to study the effects of alkaline solutions and natural clays from Tunisia on the properties of the prepared geopolymer. This is compulsory for prospective application of those products in various industries.