Performance studies on geopolymer based solid interlocking masonry blocks

Abstract

Hydraform interlocking blocks were developed in industrial site from the optimum mix obtained by factorial design of experiment using alumino-silicate rich industrial waste materials like fly ash (FA), ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS)and bottom ash (BA). A strong alkaline mixture of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in seawater was used as the activator liquid for geopolymerizationto carry out. The physical and mechanical properties of the blocks were studied and proved to be superior. The present paper evaluates the masonry design strength from prism test and also discusses the influence of the variation of height-to-thickness ratio and loading direction on the strength. The prisms and panels subjected to loadingapplied at eccentricities of 0, t/6, and t/3, generally experienced by arches, vaults and pillars, showed good results. Wallettes tested for Flexural strength, under horizontal bending, performed better than that tested under vertical bending and gave the orthogonal ratio as 0.556, useful in wall design. The failure mechanism patterns are also discussed briefly. The paper concludes that the geopolymer blocks are sustainable and a structurally viable option for the construction industry.