Accelerating the polymerization process of fly ash by microwave

Abstract

In this study, fly ash was used in a chemical reaction with alkaline activators to produce a new form of concrete, known as geopolymer. The reaction time has been shortened by using a technique of semi- dry pressing and microwave oven heating. The new binder formed by this method has been tested by modern analytical methods such as Röntghen diffraction analysis (XRD), Infrared Spectrum (FTIR), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The result indicates that the geopolymer products with high mechanical strength are suitable for using as backfill materials, reclamation materials, and unbaked building materials.