“Geopolymer Binder”-An Approach towards Complete Cement Replacement with Industrial Waste Utilization

Abstract

Geopolymer binder is a cement-free approach towards innovation in construction materials. The research includes the formation of cement free binder called as geopolymer binder with fly ash and alkaline activators; that is compatible with traditional ordinary portland cement. The mortar cubes were formed using zero cement materials along with utilizing industrial wastes as a replacement of fine aggregates. The cubes were analyzed under varying conditions with focusing on the compressive strength, density and water absorption properties. It was observed that the process of geopolymerization is feasible in construction materials by maintaining the proper combinations of reactive agents like fly ash and alkaline activators. The study shows that there is vast impact of the chemical and physical properties of fly ash on the compressive strength of geopolymer binder. The combination of ceramic waste with crushed sand as a fine aggregate gives the highest compressive strength amongst all the considered mix combinations. The quantity of an alkaline activator solution also affects the compressive strength. The density, setting time, compressive strength and water repellent property of the geopolymer binder is directly proportional to the quantity of the alkaline activators added to the mixture. The curing conditions and forms of activators also influences on the final strength. The normal temperature curing helps the binder to gain more strength than hot air and rest days curing; which makes the binder economical. The gel formed activators are increasing the compressive strength of the geopolymer binders than that of powder formed activators. The developed product of geopolymer material is satisfying all the parameters that should satisfy by the product approved by Indian standard.