Development of Fly Ash- and Slag-Based Geopolymer Concrete with Calcium Carbonate or Microsilica
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 30, Issue 12
Abstract
Geopolymer is a cementitious material known for its environmental benefits and characteristics comparable to those of conventional ordinary portland cement. Geopolymer concrete (GPC) is a relatively new construction material that is yet to be regulated by standards due to the high variability in the mix design. This paper thoroughly investigates the mechanical, chemical, and durability properties of three types of GPC in an attempt to improve mix designs. In Type I, four concrete mixes were synthesized with high binder content (43%) and 3%–6% microsilica. In Type II, four concrete mixes were made with moderate binder content (20%) and 0%–6% calcium carbonate. In Type III, one mix was designed with low binder content (15%). High compressive strength (71.6 MPa) was achieved by the M1 mix of Type I. Type II and III mixes showed strengths superior to those of comparable mixes from previous studies. It was found that Type I mixes were more prone to microcracking than mixes with a lower binder content, resulting in poor durability performances. Type II and III mixes performed similarly in the durability tests, which was mainly due to their similar binder contents. It was shown that microsilica and calcium carbonate could be added to GPC mixes without a significant impact on durability performance.
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Acknowledgments
This researched was supported by the 111 Project of China (Grant B18062). The authors acknowledge the facilities and the scientific and technical assistance of the Australian Microscopy & Microanalysis Research Facility at the Centre for Microscopy, Characterization & Analysis, The University of Western Australia, a facility funded by the University, State and Commonwealth Governments. The authors thank Mr. Anthony Miles, Mr. Chaminda Jayathilake, and Ms. Belinda Oelofse from Sika Australia for their support. Thanks are also given to former students Mr. Timothy Longley, Mr. Jonty Lewis, Mr. Andrew Mollan, and Mr. Revender Sarai and laboratory technicians Mr. Jim Waters, Mr. Brad Rose, and Mr. Matt Arpin for help with the many practical aspects of this project.
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Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 30 • Issue 12 • December 2018
Copyright
©2018 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Jan 29, 2018
Accepted: Jun 12, 2018
Published online: Sep 29, 2018
Published in print: Dec 1, 2018
Discussion open until: Feb 28, 2019
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