What Is Geopolymer Concrete?

Introduction Of Geopolymer Concrete

Geopolymer concrete is an environmentally friendly concrete. It is made from waste materials such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag. Geopolymer concrete is an alternative to traditional Portland cement concrete. Geopolymer concrete does not emit greenhouse gases.

Composition

The following elements are required for the manufacture of this concrete:

1. Fly ash is a byproduct of thermal power plants.
2. A steel plant byproduct is ground granulated blast furnace slag.
3. As required for specific concrete, fine and coarse particles.
4. An alkaline catalyst solution is created using a catalyst liquid system. In addition to distilled water, it contains a mixture of alkali silicate and hydroxide solutions. The function of the alkaline catalyst solution is to activate geopolymeric source materials containing Si and Al, such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag.

Features Of Geopolymer Concrete

1. Geopolymer concrete has been shown to have a compressive strength of up to 70 MPa (N/mm2). The concrete strengthens under compression much faster than regular Portland cement concrete.
2. After 24 hours, it was found that the strength of concrete exceeded 25 MPa. After 28 days, the compressive strength was found to be between 60 and 70 MPa.
3. It has low heat of hydration as compared to cement concrete.
4. Fire resistance is significantly improved as compared to OPC-based concrete. Compared to conventional cement concrete, this reinforcing steel provides better corrosion protection.
5. When exposed to 2% and 10% sulfuric acid, this concrete showed very good acid resistance.

Uses Of Polymer Concrete

Eco-friendly Construction: Geopolymer concrete uses less energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases during construction than traditional Portland cement concrete.

Repair and Restoration: Existing concrete constructions, such as bridges, highways and buildings, can be repaired and restored using geopolymer concrete. It works effectively in these applications due to its strong bond to existing concrete.

Precast Concrete Products: Precast concrete products, such as pipes, blocks and panels, can be made using geopolymer concrete.

Applications in High Temperatures: Geopolymer concrete is more temperature resistant than conventional concrete, making it suitable for use in high temperature settings.

Fire Resistant: Geopolymer concrete offers strong fire resistance properties, making it suitable for use in fire prone locations.

Advantages

1. It is more resistant to cracking and overall more durable because it has higher tensile and flexural strength.
2. It is less prone to cracking as a result of temperature changes as it has a low coefficient of thermal expansion.
3. It is more suited for use in industrial or marine situations as it is more resistant to chemical attack.
4. It can be employed in situations where time is of the essence due to its quick setup time.
5. Because it is more durable against wear and abrasion, it can be used in high-traffic locations.
6. It is suitable for decorative uses as it can be carved into intricate shapes.
7. It is easy to handle and operate due to its light weight.