An Experimental Study on Performance of Two-Part Geopolymer Concrete Using Natural Binders and Activators

Department of civil Engineering, Mangalam College of Engineering Kottayam - 686631, Kerala, India

^* Corresponding author: gokul.v@mangalam.in

Abstract

The study investigates the characteristics of geopolymer concrete, employing sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide as activators instead of cement. In conventional construction practices, binders like fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) are commonly combined with alkali solutions. The manufacturing process of geopolymer relies on various alkaline activators. In this research, GGBS is replaced with sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate as activators. GGBS is recognized for its ability to enhance the workability and strength of geopolymer concrete, exhibiting favorable mechanical properties, resistance to chemicals, minimal shrinkage, environmental friendliness and exceptional durability. Furthermore, there are still certain drawbacks to geopolymer concrete, such as the fact that alkaline solutions are difficult to handle and apply because they are viscous, corrosive, difficult to transport, as well as challenging to store in huge quantities. A two part geopolymer concrete consists of two main components. An activator solution and a binder solution. The activator solution typically contains alkali metal hydroxides or silicates, while the binder solution contains aluminosilicate material such as fly ash or metakaolin. When mixed together, these solutions undergo a chemical reaction that forms a solid and durable geopolymer material.