The effect of various fibers on the red mud additive sustainable geopolymer composites

Abstract

In this paper, an experimental research was conducted to investigate some mechanical and microstructural properties of geopolymers composites based on red mud-metakaolin reinforced with four different fiber types and filled with brick dust-recycle aggregate filling material. Polypropylene, glass, polyvinyl alcohol and basalt fibers were used. The effect of fiber reinforcements on the strength properties and abrasion resistance of geopolymer composites was investigated, and microstructural analysis was performed to reveal the geopolymeric matrix composition, structure and bonding of the fibers. The results revealed that fiber reinforcement to metakaolin red mud-based geopolymers with brick waste powder and recycling aggregate improved the strength properties. For example, the presence of glass and polyvinyl alcohol fibers increased the flexural strength of geopolymer composites by 39% and 61%, respectively, compared to the control sample. Microstructural analysis revealed that the fibers gave an acceptable interfacial bond with the geopolymeric binder. The findings of the current article show a potential solution to becoming a sustainable geopolymer by presenting the successful use of red mud, recycling aggregate, and brick dust waste with different fibers as important asset materials.