Preparation and Freeze-Thaw Resistance of Geopolymer-Based Natural Plant Fiber Composites

Abstract

Slag, alkaline activator solution and straw fibers were used to manufacture geopolymer-based natural plant fiber composites. In this study, three influences of water glass modulus, fiber content and water-binder ratio on bending strength were studied by orthogonal experiment and single factor analysis. The results indicate that the order of the factors affecting the bending strength is: water-binder ratio > fiber content > water glass modulus. When the water-binder ratio is 0.4, the fiber content is 12%, and the water glass modulus is 1.9, the bending strength of composite is up to 9.1MPa, which exceeds the standard requirements (9MPa) for qualified products specified in the standard (GB/T 24312-2009). The SEM and appearance of specimens indicate that the geopolymer-based natural plant fiber composites have good freeze-thaw resistance.