Development of new precursors for one-part alkali-activated geopolymer using industrial wastes

Abstract

Conventional two-part alkali activation has many drawbacks: the hazardous activating solution, which makes it less friendly to handle and the absence in long-term availability of its main precursors such as fly ash and ground granulated furnace slag. This research aimed to develop a one-part alkali-activated cement, which is free of chemical solutions. A blend of alumina-silicate rich materials with adequate alkaline content to minimise the limitations associated with the current (AAC) relating to source materials was utilised. At the same time, applying alternative activation methods such as thermo-mechanical activation, alkali-thermal activation or thermo-chemical activation of new (AAC) precursors were investigated. Materials were analysed in terms of their physical, chemical and metallurgical properties to understand the changes after thermal activation. Enhanced compressive strength was recorded from individual thermal activation of the materials at 450 °C and 950 °C.