Mechanical Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Slag-Based Geopolymer Composite

Abstract

Geopolymer materials are extensively studied as they are considered more sustainable and eco-friendlier than ordinary Portland cement concrete. This study examined the mechanical characteristics of geopolymer composite. Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) was utilized as a binder material. Both polypropylene (PP) and carbon fibers (CF) were added to 0, 0.75%, 1.0%, and 1.25% of the weight of the binder. Hybrid fiber was also used concurrently (CF-1.0 and PP-0.25; CF-0.5 and PP-0.5; and CF-0.25 and PP-1.0). Compressive strength, flexural strength, direct tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity were used to assess the mechanical properties. According to the findings, the best-studied fiber content was 1% for all the types of fiber inclusion (carbon, polypropylene, and hybrid fiber) which considerably improved the mechanical characteristics. However, carbon fiber had a greater impact on the mechanical properties than polypropylene fiber and hybrid fiber. Strain hardening and deflection hardening were achieved and indicated by multiple cracks and ultimate strength.