Water Absorption Research Articles

Mechanical Properties Evaluation of Fly Ash Bricks in Masonry Construction

Abstract: In the context of sustainable construction practices, the utilization of industrial by-products like fly ash in brick manufacturing is gaining popularity. This study aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of fly ash bricks, such as compressive strength, water absorption, flexural (rupture) strength, density, and efflorescence, and compares them to traditional burnt clay bricks commonly used in Pakistan. Experimental results show that fly ash bricks exhibit higher compressive and rupture strength and lower water absorption compared to conventional clay bricks. However, moderate levels of efflorescence in fly ash bricks suggest room for improvement in certain applications. The percent difference between fly ash and clay bricks has been calculated to quantify their suitability for masonry construction in Pakistan. This research contributes to the understanding of how fly ash bricks could serve as an alternative in construction materials with a lower environmental footprint.

Response Surface Methodology for Optimisation of Parameter on Water Absorption of Natural Fibre Hybrid Composite in Boat Construction

Today, the utilisation of natural or green fibre has supplanted engineered fibre as fibreglass has become a pattern in composite boat producing and other gears because of its lightweight, excellent relative mechanical properties, and more significant elements. For example, it is eco-accommodating, has manageable materials, and has lower costs compared to fibreglass. The utilisation of fibreglass is costly and has a high effect on the natural biological system. It also gets over the area of ecological contamination, word-related well-being, and security concerns. This study used the Woven Kenaf/fibreglass as reinforcement and polyester as matric to fabricate hybrid composite coupons. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) of Box-Behnken Design (BBD) was applied to optimise fibre contents (35 to 75 wt%) and water absorption performance for the development of Woven Kenaf/fibreglass to polyester hybrid composite material based on the parameters. The BBD revealed that 45% Woven Kenaf/fibreglass to polyester performed the optimum fibre content and water absorption. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) showed that the model satisfactorily correlated the parameters. After immersion, 45% Woven Kenaf/fibreglass to polyester composite also gained 9.48% weight.

Influence of rubber aggregates from the recycled tires on the physico-mechanical and durability properties of compressed earth blocks

To meet sustainable development goals, global policies are strongly oriented toward valorizing alternative resources such as local materials and waste from different sectors of activity. This study aims to evaluate the influence of adding rubber aggregates from used/recycled tires (GPU) on the physico-mechanical and durability properties of compressed earth bricks (CEB). The CEB were made with an earthen matrix containing 8% cement, and 0 to 2% mass of GPU. The CEB were cured under ambient conditions (30±5°C) for 28 days. The results showed a real improvement in physical and mechanical performance and durability indicators of CEB with increasing GPU content. The apparent density changed slightly from 1697 kg/m3 to 1733 kg/m3. Total water absorption decreased from 21% to 19% with a slight decrease in water-accessible porosity from 35.7% to 33.1%. The capillary absorption coefficient at 10 minutes also decreased from 14 g/cm2.min1/2 to 10 g/cm2.min1/2 The increase of 29% was noted on the compressive strength in the dry state ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 MPa and of 60% on the compressive strength in the wet state ranging from 1.1 MPa to 1.7 MPa. This resulted in the improvement of the structural efficiency coefficient by 27% ranging from 2080 to 2651 Pa.m3/kg. Abrasion resistance coefficient increased more than 50% ranging from 10.8 to 16.9 cm2/g. By comparing the results to the normative references, the CEB containing GPU can be classified as CEB usable in load-bearing walls in a dry environment and resistant to abrasion.

Application of polymer adhesive hydrogel in wound healing

As the global adhesive industry continues to grow, researchers are discovering that polymer adhesives are playing an increasing role in the medical field, polymer adhesives have attracted more and more attention from the medical industry due to their unique advantages, such as hydrogels, have gradually appeared, which can effectively help wound healing. Most of the hydrogels have good biocompatibility and water absorption, and have the advantages of controllable structure, adjustable performance and easy degradation. Compared with traditional wound healing methods, hydrogels effectively reduce additional trauma and leakage and allow for greater tissue integration. This paper reviews the types of polymeric adhesive hydrogels and examples of some of them being artificially modified to be applied to the field of wound healing. Analyzes their mechanism of action and the advantages and shortcomings of their clinical applications, and finally looks into the potential functions and clinical efficacy of hydrogels in the future.

The Weathering of the Beech and Spruce Wood Impregnated with Pigmented Linseed Oil

This research aimed to examine the effects of a deep impregnation technique (Royal process) and surface coating using a linseed oil-based product, enhanced with small amounts of brown and grey pigments, on the natural and artificial weathering of wood. The treated and reference samples underwent natural weathering for five years and artificial weathering for 1900 h. Changes in color and surface roughness were assessed during weathering. For the artificially weathered samples, liquid water absorption was measured both before and after exposure. The impregnated and coated samples gradually lost their brown color, turning grey over time. More pronounced differences were observed during natural weathering, with the coated samples showing greater structural changes on the wood surface. In contrast, impregnated samples slowed down structural alterations compared to the reference samples. Both treatments effectively reduced water absorption before weathering, although this effect diminished after exposure. The treatments did not significantly impact the fire resistance of spruce and beechwood.

Enhancing the strength of tissue paper through pulp fractionation and stratified forming

Abstract The potential of combining stratified paper forming with pulp fractionation was investigated to improve the balance between low density, which enhances water absorbency and softness, and the dry strength of tissue papers. The selected fractionation approaches allowed us to separate especially stiff, low-fibrillated fibers (A fractions) from flexible, fibrillated fibers containing fines (detached segments of fibers, fibrils, or lamellae fragments) (B fractions). After characterizing the morphological properties of each fiber fraction, 20 g/m2 model papers were produced with and without wet pressing to tune the paper density. At a density of 0.3 g/cm³, the tensile breaking stress of B papers was at least three times higher than that of A papers. The strain at break of B papers was also close to two times higher than that of A papers. Interestingly, bilayer papers A/B exhibited breaking stress values intermediate between those of A and B papers, while native pulp papers, i.e., without fractionation and stratified forming, followed the trend of A papers. Notably, bi-layering the paper improved the breaking stress by up to twice as much without increasing the paper density, which could be highly beneficial in improving the balance of properties in tissue paper grades.

Effect of Waste Glass Powder Replacement of Hydraulic Lime on Properties of Natural Hydraulic Lime Mortars

This paper investigates the effects of the partial replacement of natural hydraulic lime (NHL) with waste glass powder (GP) on the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of NHL mortars. In the experimental study, five mixtures containing up to 50% GP were prepared to evaluate its effect on the flow, carbonation, unit weight, water absorption, porosity, ultrasonic pulse velocity, capillary water absorption, compressive strength, and microstructure of NHL mortars. The experimental results suggest that the partial replacement of NHL with GP significantly affects the properties of NHL mortars. A reduction in compressive strength was observed with increasing GP content in mortars at both early and later stages. Nevertheless, the compressive strength difference between samples containing 50% GP and the reference was found to be relatively minor at 91 days, implying an enhanced pozzolanic reaction over time. The incorporation of GP improved the consistency and capillary water absorption of mortars, while the opposite was observed for ultrasonic pulse velocity, porosity, and water absorption. The microstructural analysis revealed distinct changes in the structure of samples incorporating GP. The partial substitution of hydraulic lime with GP could be beneficial in reducing the CO2 emissions of NHL mortars.

Analysis of the Impact and Mechanism of Polyacrylate-Based Composite Paste on the Performance of Recycled Aggregate

This study developed three composite slurries for coating recycled aggregate by incorporating polyacrylate emulsion, fly ash, and gypsum into a cement-based mixture. The filling and pozzolanic effects of fly ash help to improve microcracks in the recycled aggregates. The polyacrylate emulsion forms a strong bonding layer between the cement matrix and the aggregates, enhancing the interfacial bond strength. Based on relevant studies, the following mix designs were developed: Slurry 1 consists of pure cement paste; Slurry 2 contains 15% fly ash and 3% gypsum added to the cement paste; Slurry 3 adds 22% polyacrylate emulsion to the slurry. The study first compared the effects of the three composite slurries on the crushing value and water absorption of recycled aggregates, and then analyzed their impact on the mechanical properties, permeability, and drying shrinkage of concrete. Finally, the mechanisms behind the enhancement were investigated using the Vickers Hardness Test (HV), Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP), and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The results showed that the polyacrylate emulsion composite slurry had the most significant improvement effect. For recycled aggregate AL, the crushing value decreased from 28.8% to 22.5% and the saturated surface–dry water absorption decreased from 15.1% to 13.8% after cement slurry modification. After coating with the composite slurry, the crushing value further dropped to 18.2% and the water absorption to 9.5%. Two aspects of the performance of recycled aggregates are enhanced with the polymer composite slurry: first, fly ash provides nucleation sites for CH, reducing the tendency for directional CH alignment. Second, the long chains of PAE (polyacrylic ester) encapsulate cementitious particles, effectively filling surface defects on the recycled aggregates, improving the bonding strength at the new-to-old interface, and significantly enhancing the performance of both recycled aggregates and recycled concrete.

Low‐temperature bubble formation in silica glass

AbstractPhase separation was observed in silica glass following low‐temperature heat treatment in high water vapor pressure through the formation of bubbles. Although the 6 day diffusion treatment in saturated water vapor pressure at 250°C does not normally cause phase separation, the reactive fracture surface and subsurface damage caused by polishing with cerium oxide (CeO2) allowed for an increase in water absorption during treatment and heterogeneous nucleation of the bubbles at damaged sites. The sub‐surface damage, characteristic of blunt contact damage, was only revealed when the polished sample was etched. The formation of bubbles and polishing damage were observed in two silica glasses—one containing chlorine impurities and the other containing OH impurities. Raman spectra collected after fracture or polishing and water diffusion treatment demonstrated an increase in the abundance of –OH species including silanol (SiOH) groups and an evolution in the glass structure in the bubble regions compared with the bubble‐free regions. These results indicate an increase in the reactivity between water and glass fracture surfaces relative to the bulk.

Hygrothermal aging behavior of C/GFRP hybrid rod with bundle‐by‐bundle dispersion

AbstractFiber hybrid with bundle‐by‐bundle dispersion can achieve the high performance of composites, fully understand the hybrothermal resistance of hybrid composites is the key to prove the applications in engineering structures. In the present paper, the hygrothermal resistance performances of new type carbon and glass fiber reinforced epoxy based hybrid rod with bundle‐by‐bundle dispersion produced by pultrusion technology is investigated experimentally. The tests of water absorption and desorption, thermal and mechanical performances are performed to obtain the evolution rules of hygrothermal aging. As a result, the water absorption of hybrid rod confirms to the Fick's diffusion behavior, the serious relaxation of resin matrix and the interfacial debonding of fiber‐resin exposed at high temperature provide more diffusion space for water molecules. Long‐term hydrothermal aging results in the recoverable plasticization of resin matrix and irrecoverable interfacial debonding of fiber‐resin, which brings about the degradation of 6.7%–15.0% for short beam shear strength (SBSS) retention. In addition, the plasticization effect reduces the cross‐linking density of resin matrix, which leads to the degradation of 3.3%–15.6% for glass transition temperature (Tg) retention. The life prediction results show that degradation rate of SBSS is gradually slow down and reached to a stable retention of 85.5%.Highlights Relaxation of resin matrix and interfacial debonding accelerate the diffusion of water molecules. Plasticization and interfacial debonding lead to the degradation of short beam shear strength retention and glass transition temperature. Long‐term life prediction shows that short beam shear strength e retention is 85.5%.

Development of phage-containing hydrogel for treating Enterococcus faecalis-infected wounds.

Chronic wound infections caused by Enterococcus faecalis pose formidable challenges in clinical management, exacerbated by the emergence of vancomycin-resistant strains. Phage therapy offers a targeted approach but encounters delivery hurdles. Due to their biocompatibility and controlled release properties, hydrogels hold promise as carriers. This study aimed to fabricate phage-containing hydrogels using sodium alginate (SA), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and hyaluronic acid (HA) to treat E. faecalis-infected wounds. We assessed the efficacy of these hydrogels both in vitro and in vivo. The hydrogel was prepared using SA-CMC-HA polymers. Phage SAM-E.f 12 was incorporated into the SA-CMC-HA hydrogel. The hydrogel's swelling index was measured after 24 h, and degradation was assessed over seven days. Surface morphology and composition were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Antibacterial activity was tested via optical density (OD) and disk diffusion assays. Phage release and stability were evaluated over a month. In vivo efficacy was tested in mice through wound healing and bacterial count assays, with histopathological analysis. Hydrogels exhibited a swelling index of 0.43, a water absorption rate of %30, and 23% degradation over seven days. FTIR confirmed successful polymer incorporation. In vitro studies demonstrated that phage-containing hydrogels significantly inhibited bacterial growth, with an OD of 0.3 compared to 1.1 for the controls. Hydrogels remained stable for four weeks. In vivo, phage-containing hydrogels reduced bacterial load and enhanced wound healing, as shown by improved epithelialization and tissue restoration. Phage-containing hydrogels effectively treat wounds infected with E. faecalis-infected wounds, promoting wound healing through controlled phage release. These hydrogels can improve clinical outcomes in the treatment of infected wounds.

Frost resistance and improvement techniques of recycled concrete: a comprehensive review

In the pursuit of sustainable construction practices, the utilization of recycled concrete has emerged as a pivotal strategy, distinguished by its commitment to resource conservation and environmental stewardship. Nevertheless, the inherent micro-porosity and micro-cracking within the old mortar of recycled concrete may lead to weak bonding performance at the interfacial transition zone, culminating in diminished strength, reduced density, and elevated water absorption rates compared to conventional concrete, which critically impairs its performance in cold climates subjected to freeze-thaw cycles. Consequently, this paper provides a structured examination of the frost resistance properties of recycled concrete subjected to freeze-thaw cycling. Initially, the study delineates the mechanisms of frost-induced damage in recycled concrete by synthesizing the degradation pathways observed in both conventional and recycled concrete during freeze-thaw exposure. Subsequently, a detailed analysis is conducted to identify the pivotal factors affecting frost resistance, encompassing the proportion and moisture affinity of recycled aggregates, the addition of silica fume and fly ash, the water-to-cement ratio, and the degree of water saturation. In the final segment, the study compiles and reviews the strategies for bolstering the frost resistance of recycled concrete, including the incorporation of air-entraining admixtures, fiber reinforcement, and aggregate modification approaches. The objective of this research is to offer a thorough comprehension of recycled concrete, with a concentration on the mechanisms of frost damage, the critical determinants of frost resistance, and interventions to augment its resilience against freezing conditions. On this basis, the present paper, in conjunction with the characteristics and current research status of recycled concrete, proposes recommendations for the application of recycled concrete in cold regions. This review is anticipated to facilitate researchers in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the freeze-thaw characteristics of recycled concrete and the measures to enhance its frost resistance. Furthermore, it aims to assist engineering and technical personnel in selecting appropriate treatment methods to improve the frost resistance of recycled concrete in cold regions, thereby promoting the practical engineering application of recycled concrete in such areas.

Light‐Assisted Polyproton Dissociated PAAm‐PA Hydrogel‐Based Moisture‐Driven Electricity Generator with a Broad Operating Range

AbstractDue to its widespread availability and spontaneity, moisture electricity generation (MEG) holds unique advantages in self‐powered systems. However, it faces challenges, including the limitations of relying on a single kind of power generation and insufficient output performance. Inspired by the mechanisms of water absorption of plants, this paper explores a light‐moisture coordinated electricity generating hydrogel (L‐MEGH) device with flexible, scalable, and highly efficient energy conversion performance, which is obtained through the UV polymerization of hydrophilic acrylamide (AAM) and phytic acid (PA) in the presence of photosensitizers. The obtained hydrogel demonstrates superior moisture absorption and remarkable electricity generation stability across a range of humidity conditions. Notably, the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of the L‐MEGH increased from 0.675 to 0.838 V after the addition of photosensitizers (Erythrosin B, E) (the significant enhancement, up to 24%), and the short‐circuit current (Isc) reaching 635.543 µA. This L‐MEGH can realize stable electrical output even under extreme temperatures, producing 0.5 V at −20 °C for 45 h. The scalable L‐MEGHs (connected on‐demand in series/parallel) can power various commercial electronics, including nighttime illumination, mobile phones, and health monitoring sensors. This work pioneers a sustainable power generation pathway capable of enhancing performance through the hybrid collection of multiple natural energy sources.

Heritage clay brick characterization and assessment with compatible contemporary bricks for retrofitting of heritage monuments

Various mughal architecture clay brick masonry monuments were built in the Punjab state of northern India from the late 14th to late 19th centuries. Nanakshahi monuments (era of 1st Sikh Guru-Guru Nanak Dev Ji) are gigantic clay brick masonry structures constructed of lime and lime surkhi mortar (a powdered form of red burnt clay brick). Currently, this study is focused on identifying a suitable material for repairing and strengthening heritage clay brick monuments. Using the mineralogical composition of heritage Nanakshahi clay bricks (NSCB), the study compares them with contemporary clay bricks (CCB) from the same region, and then compares them to newly prepared clay bricks (NPCB), which have similar composition and dimensions to NSCB. The X-ray fluorescence confirms that the NSCB samples of southeast Punjab have an elemental composition consisting of filler SiO2 and binding elements like Al2O3, Fe2O3, CaO, K2O and MgO. The average density of ancient NSCB and CCB has been found to be similar; the ancient NSCB has a lower water absorption rate and porosity in contrast to the present-day clay bricks. The Initial rate of absorption of an ancient NSCB is quite higher. In comparison to the heritage NSCB, the CCB's compressive strength value is lower and uniaxial compression strength of newly prepared clay bricks (NPCB) of similar mineralogical composition and dimensions is comparable to that of the heritage NSCB from Punjab districts. The significance of the study is to suggest a compatible material for strengthening of heritage clay brick monuments of northern India.

Exploring the performance and biodegradability of Edible Biopolymer blends incorporating Pistacia atlantica subsp. Mutica Gum and Plasticized Poly(lactic acid)

Blending biopolymer is a key objective in development of innovative materials and effectively enhances the characteristics of the components to achieve tailored properties. This study introduces five eco-friendly blends in different ratios, created by melt-blending polymers, incorporating Pistacia atlantica subsp. mutica gum into plasticized poly (lactic acid) with 16% acetyl tributyl citrate. To perform a comprative analysis of blends ratios, comprehensive techniques were applied, including differential scanning calorimetry, tensile testing, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and evaluations of water absorption behavior, chemical resistance, and biodegradability. The 70/30 (plasticized poly (lactic acid)/P. atlantica) blend was mechanically superior, exhibiting the greatest elongation at break and the lowest yield strength and Young’s modulus. FTIR analysis showed consistent spectral patterns across the 3000 to 650 cm− 1 range, with numerous absorption bands. DSC analysis identified the highest and lowest glass transition temperatures for the 90/10 and 70/30 blends, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy highlighted the development of more distinct island-sea structures as the proportion of P. atlantica gum increased. Water absorption tests differentiated the 90/10 blend as the most absorbent, while the 70/30 blend absorbed the least. Chemical resistance testing revealed all blends gained weight in HCl, but only the 90/10 blend lost weight in NaOH. All samples were confirmed to be highly biodegradable, surpassing 50% degradation after 6 months. Overall, the findings suggest that blending plasticized poly (lactic acid) and P. atlantica gum enhances the flexibility and performance of poly (lactic acid), warranting further attention.

EFFECTS OF SOWING DATE AND LOCATIONS ON THE SELECTED WHEAT CULTIVARS QUALITY PERFORMANCE

The current study was aimed assessing the effects of cultivars, sowing date and locations on bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L) quality parameters grain protein concentration (GP), Gluten Index GI, falling number (FN), Water absorption capacity (WAC %), Pasting temperature (PT), and loaf volume (LV) of five bread wheat cultivars viz. Alla, Hassad, Charmo, Maaroof, and Adana as control, two sowing dates (Nov 15th, Dec 15th) at each location under rainfed environment. Grain samples were obtained from previous field experiments were conducted at two locations of Sulaimani Governate in Iraq-Kurdistan-region, Qlyasan and Halabja, during growing seasons 2018-2019. The experiments were conducted using RCBD within split plot arrangement with three replicates. Result for companied analysis, showed that cultivars sowing date, locations, the interactions CS, CL, and SL and tri-interaction CSL were high significantly affects to all quality traits except GP for location, LV for SL and GP for CS interaction, which were non-significant. The results confirmed that sowing wheat lately is an accept option for maximizing GP, GI, PT, and LV, while, optimum sowing was increasing FN and WA traits, regardless of cultivar or location. Wheat grown at Qlyasan appeared to have more GP content, FN, WA, PT, and LV, while Halabja location to have stronger gluten quality (GI). The di-interactions viz. CS, CL, and SL and tri-interaction CSL played a significant important role in changing or modifying the values of the quality traits.

Potential Effects of Soccer Ball Characteristics on Ball-to-Head Contact: A Systematic Review

Background: The aim of this study was to systematically review research on the effect of soccer ball characteristics on ball-to-head contact. Methods: This systematic review was conducted using electronic databases, which included PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science. The search strategy combined keywords related to soccer, the ball and its characteristics, heading, and kinematics variables. Studies analyzing the impact of soccer ball characteristics on heading biomechanics were included. The review included studies using mathematical models, simulations, and human subjects. Results: A total of nine studies were included, highlighting the lack of evidence on this topic. The following ball characteristics were investigated: inflation pressure (n = 7), mass (n = 4), structure/material properties (n = 3), size/diameter (n = 3), and stiffness (n = 3). Most studies used non-human subjects, such as mathematical, simulated, or head-form models. Key findings were as follows: (a) reducing inflation pressure may decrease impact magnitude; (b) ball size may not directly relate to impact magnitude, but one study found that a smaller size resulted in a shorter impact time; (c) lower impact observed with decreasing ball mass; (d) lowering stiffness showed a tendency to lower impact; (e) two studies on water absorption found that wet balls were heavier and had greater impact forces than dry balls; and (f) ball structure and cover material directly influenced impulsive forces. Conclusions: Modifying soccer ball characteristics may reduce heading forces, but the available research has limitations. More controlled studies are needed to determine optimal ball properties for mitigating injury risk during soccer heading. Standardized testing methods can further clarify the biomechanics of heading, supporting ongoing innovations to enhance player experience.

Development of Biodegradable and Recyclable FRLM Composites Incorporating Cork Aggregates for Sustainable Construction Practices

Reducing energy consumption in the building sector has driven the search for more sustainable construction methods. This study explores the potential of cork-modified mortars reinforced with basalt fabric, focusing on optimizing both mechanical and hygroscopic properties. Six mortar mixtures were produced using a breathable structural mortar made from pure natural hydraulic lime, incorporating varying percentages (0–3%) of cork granules (Quercus suber) as lightweight aggregates. Micro-computed tomography was first used to assess the homogeneity of the mixtures, followed by flow tests to evaluate workability. The mixtures were then tested for water absorption, compressive strength, and adhesion to tuff and clay brick surfaces. Adhesion was measured through pull-off tests, to evaluate internal bonding strength. Additionally, this study examined the relationship between surface roughness and bond strength in FRLM composites, revealing that rougher surfaces significantly improved adhesion to clay and tuff bricks. These findings suggest that cork-reinforced mortars offer promising potential for sustainable construction, achieving improved hygroscopic performance, sufficient mechanical strength, internal bonding, and optimized surface adhesion.

A case study of crushed stone for road construction application: amphibolite and basalt varieties from Croatia

Crushed stone is one of the most exploited and important mineral raw material. Emphasis is given to determination of mineralogical and petrographic properties, of two genetically different rocks of silicate composition, commonly used as crushed stone for road constructions, as their physical properties depend on them. First is amphibolite from Vetovo, and second is basalt from Vratnik locality, both sourced from Croatia. Tests conducted according to European and Croatian norms evaluated the real and apparent density, open and total porosity, and water absorption of stones. The relationship between mineralogical and physical properties led to the following conclusions: the open porosity values of amphibolite samples are low, which is a consequence of the medium to high degree of metamorphism, (plagioclase and hornblenda), sosiritization, and undisturbed rock features. The total water saturation was achieved in a brief time, confirming this statement. The basalts have different porosity and water absorption values, which are consequences of differences their textural-structural properties (glassy, intersertal or intergranular groundmass), amount of amygdules, presence or absence of chlorite/volcanic glass. Furthermore, the percentage of plagioclase in the modal composition differs, and the plagioclase itself has been altered, and the amount of clay, sericite and calcite vary in two different varieties of basalt. Compared to amphibolites, basalts have notably higher water absorption values as well. Accordingly, the studied amphibolite has water absorption less than 0.5% and is suitable for use in a road construction application for wearing course in the asphalt pavement, and studied basalt is not.

Investigating the influence of various metakaolin combinations with different proportions of pond ash and Alccofine 1203 on ternary blended geopolymer concrete at ambient curing.

This paper explores the use of a ternary blended geopolymer concrete (TBGPC) incorporating metakaolin (MK), pond ash (PA), and Alccofine 1203 (AF). Three combinations of MK (25%, 50%, and 75%) with varying proportions of PA and AF were prepared, validating against M30 grade cement concrete (CC). TBGPC was prepared with an 8 molarity sodium hydroxide, sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide ratio of 2.0, liquid to binder ratio of 0.5, and an ambient curing mode. For CC, a water to cement ratio of 0.42 and water curing mode were adopted. The mechanical properties and durability behavior of TBGPC and CC specimens were evaluated through compressive strength, rapid chloride penetration test, permeability test, sorptivity test, and water absorption test. The M50P35A15 mix demonstrated remarkable compressive strength improvements, showing a 203% increase over the CC mix at 1day and 250% by 3days. This trend continued with a 155% increase at 7days, 68% at 28days, and 52% at 90days, consistently outperforming the CC mix. Additionally, microstructure characteristics of the M50P35A15 mix were analyzed through SEM studies, providing validation for the observed strength development. Notably, M50P35A15 mix demonstrated substantially higher early and later strength gain. This enhancement in strength was attributed to the gradual densification of the microstructure over time and the formation of additional NASH and CASH gel in M50P35A15 mix. At 28days, the M50P35A15 mix exhibited excellent durability characteristics, with a Coulomb value of 1008, permeability of 10mm, sorptivity of 0.45mm/√min × 10-4, and water absorption of 1.07%. This study demonstrates the potential of MK, PA, and AF as viable materials for sustainable geopolymer concrete, offering a low-carbon alternative to traditional cement concrete with superior strength and durability aspects.