Research on mechanical properties of geo polymer concrete

Abstract

Increase in emission of carbon dioxide due to different industrial and non-industrial activities are causing a serious threat to environment. Cement being one of the major contributors in carbon dioxide emissions there is greater need felt throughout the world to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through cement manufacture. Industrial by-products like GGBS, fly ash and rice husk have a serious problems in waste disposal which affects economy of country. Geo-polymer concrete is a solution to this problem. Geopolymer is a class of aluminosilicate binding material synthesized by thermal activation of GGBS and fly ash. Geopolymer is produced due to alkalination of materials rich in aluminium and silicon with alkali solution, an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate. Alkali solution with 16M molar concentration was prepared with hydroxide to silicate ratio as 2.5.Different samples were casted with 50% GGBS, 25% PFA and 25% metakaolin. All the specimens were cured at 60 degree calcium in accelerated curing tank for 3 days. It was observed that geo-polymer concrete gives higher strength as compared to normal concrete.