Fresh and hardened behaviour of Geopolymer activated with Water Glass

Abstract

Abstract To activate Geopolymer reaction, previous studies have employed combination of sodium silicate(Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide(NaOH) solution employed as activator for activation of Flyash-based Geopolymer concrete, but these methods were found to be un-economical. To make Geopolymer concrete(GPC) production more cost-effective, water glass has been explored as an alternative activator, it is an impure form of sodium silicate. Water Glass(WG) of silica modulus(Ms) 1.99 was used as the activator, and several combinations of Flyash and GGBS were used as binding material to assess the consistency, setting, strength, and acid resistance of Geopolymer mortar. Present study demonstrates that using Water Glass as the activator with specific combinations of Flyash and GGBS are used as binding materials, in ambient curing circumstances is appropriate for the construction sector. Additionally, the Water Glass solution effectively counteracted the quick setting properties of Geopolymer when a high percentage of GGBS was incorporated into the mix. By employing this innovative approach, it becomes possible to reduce carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production and utilize Flyash waste productively, offering a more environmentally sustainable solution for the construction sector. Such advancements in Geopolymer concrete technology hold great promise in mitigating the environmental impact of construction activities and contributing to a greener future.