Mechanical, Durability and Microstructure Analysis Overview of Concrete Made with Metakaolin (MTK)

Abstract

Metakaolin (MTK) has received a lot of interest in the past two decades as a supplemental cementitious ingredient. MTK is actively being utilized in concrete and there is a large body of literature on the characteristics of concrete containing MTK. A rigorous evaluation of the use of MTK in concrete, however, is lacking, which is required to better know its (MTK) benefits, mechanisms, past and current progress. As a result, the objective of this study is to deliver an overview of MTK utilized in concrete. The physical and chemical characteristics of MTK, as well as the hydration, workability, mechanical qualities, hydration durability, and microstructure analysis of MTK-based concrete, are discussed. A comparison of the findings of diverse literature is presented, as well as some key recommendations. The findings suggest that adding MTK to concrete enhances certain characteristics, particularly mechanical capabilities, but decreases concrete flowability. Improvement in the durability of concrete with MTK was also observed but, for this, less information is available. For optimal performance, the right dosage is crucial. The typical ideal range is between 10 to 20% by weight of the binder. Further research gaps into the characteristics of concrete containing MTK are also recommended.