Performance Studies on Self-Compacting Geopolymer Concrete at Ambient Curing Condition

Abstract

The present experimental work aims to study mechanical parameters of the self-compacting geopolymer concrete (SCGPC) developed and cured at ambient temperatures. Self-compacting geopolymer concrete is developed by partial replacement of class F fly ash with ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) ranging from 0% to 60% with an interval of 10% of binder content. The rheological properties of developed self-compacting geopolymer concrete mixes are evaluated for various mixes, and mechanical properties like compressive strength test, split tensile strength test, and flexural strength test are carried out. Based on the results of mechanical and rheological properties, the dosage of GGBS is optimized. Results indicated that at 50% replacement of the GGBS as binder has satisfied the fresh properties of the self-compacting geopolymer concrete as per European Federation of National Associations Representing for Concrete (EFNARC) guidelines and has obtained better strength results compared to other SCGPC mixes. This paper also presents the initial and final setting time curves of geopolymer paste prepared using class F fly ash and GGBS with alkaline activators for various concentration of sodium hydroxide ranging from 10 molar to 14 molar with an interval of 2 molar.