VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY,

“JnanaSangama”, Belagavi - 590018

A PROJECT REPORT ON

STUDY OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE USING FLYASH AND GGBS

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement as a part of the curriculum

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING IN CIVIL

For the academic year of 2015-2016
Submitted by

PRATEEK SHARAN 1NH12CV076

AMIT KUMAR 1NH12CV073

SUSHMITA RAVI 1NH12CV064
SHUBHAM REWAR 1NH12CV057
Under the Guidance of
Ms SUMA PARALADA and Mr BA RANGANATHAN
Assistant Professor, Dept of civil engineering, NHCE

NEW HORIZON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

(ISO-9001:200 certified, Accredited by NAAC ‘A’
Permanently affiliated to VTU)
Outer Ring Road, Bellandur Post, Near Marathalli,
Bangalore-560103, India
 NEW HORIZON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(ISO-9001:200 certified, Accredited by NAAC ‘A’
Permanently affiliated to VTU)
Outer Ring Road, Bellandur Post, Near Marathalli,
Bangalore-560103, India

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

Certified that the project work on “STUDY OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

USING FLYASH AND GGBS” has been successfully presented by PRATEEK
SHARAN bearing USN: 1NH12CV076 in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the VIII Semester degree of Bachelor Engineering in Civil
Engineering of the Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the
year 2015-2016. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for
internal assessment have been incorporated in the report. The Project Report
has been certified as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect of
Project work for the said degree.

GUIDE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT PRINCIPAL

(Prof. SUMA PARALADA (Dr. P.S NIRANJAN) (Dr. MANJUNATHA)
Mr. BA RANGANATHAN)

Examiners:
1. ………………………………. 2. ……………………..……….
 NEW HORIZON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(ISO-9001:200 certified, Accredited by NAAC ‘A’
Permanently affiliated to VTU)
Outer Ring Road, Bellandur Post, Near Marathalli,
Bangalore-560103, India

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

Certified that the project work on “STUDY OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

USING FLYASH AND GGBS” has been successfully presented by AMIT
KUMAR bearing USN: 1NH12CV073 in partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the VIII Semester degree of Bachelor Engineering in Civil Engineering of
the Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the year 2015-
2016. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for internal
assessment have been incorporated in the report. The Project Report has
been certified as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect of Project
work for the said degree.

GUIDE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT PRINCIPAL

(Prof. SUMA PARALADA (Dr. P.S NIRANJAN) (Dr. MANJUNATHA)
Mr. BA RANGANATHAN)

Examiners:
1. ………………………………. 2. ……………………..……….
 NEW HORIZON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(ISO-9001:200 certified, Accredited by NAAC ‘A’
Permanently affiliated to VTU)
Outer Ring Road, Bellandur Post, Near Marathalli,
Bangalore-560103, India

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

Certified that the project work on “STUDY OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

USING FLYASH AND GGBS” has been successfully presented by SUSHMITA
RAVI bearing USN: 1NH12CV064 in partial fulfillment of the requirements for
the VIII Semester degree of Bachelor Engineering in Civil Engineering of the
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the year 2015-2016. It
is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for internal assessment
have been incorporated in the report. The Project Report has been certified
as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect of Project work for the
said degree.

GUIDE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT PRINCIPAL

(Prof. SUMA PARALADA (Dr. P.S NIRANJAN) (Dr. MANJUNATHA)
Mr. BA RANGANATHAN)

Examiners:
1. ………………………………. 2. ……………………..……….
 NEW HORIZON COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(ISO-9001:200 certified, Accredited by NAAC ‘A’
Permanently affiliated to VTU)
Outer Ring Road, Bellandur Post, Near Marathalli,
Bangalore-560103, India

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

Certified that the project work on “STUDY OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

USING FLYASH AND GGBS” has been successfully presented by SHUBHAM
REWAR USN: 1NH12CV057 in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
VIII Semester degree of Bachelor Engineering in Civil Engineering of the
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi during the year 2015-2016. It
is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for internal assessment
have been incorporated in the report. The Project Report has been certified
as it satisfies the academic requirements in respect of Project work for the
said degree.

GUIDE HEAD OF DEPARTMENT PRINCIPAL

(Prof. SUMA PARALADA (Dr. P.S NIRANJAN) (Dr. MANJUNATHA)
Mr. BA RANGANATHAN)

Examiners:
1. ………………………………. 2. ……………………..……….
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The satisfaction and euphoria that accompany the successful completion of any task would be
incomplete without the mention of the people who made it possible, whose constant guidance
and encouragement crowned the efforts with success.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to our respected Dr. MOHAN MANGHNANI
Chairman of New Horizon College of Engineering and our beloved Principal
Dr. MANJUNATHA, who have been magnanimous in giving us complete freedom to do
things and providing us with the facilities required.

It gives me immense pleasure to thank Dr. P.S NIRANJAN Professor and Head of
Department for his constant support and encouragement.

Also, I would like to express my deepest sense of gratitude to my Project guide

MS. SUMA PARALADA Assistant Professor, Department of civil Engineering for their
constant support and guidance throughout the Project work.

I would also like to thank all other teaching and non-teaching staff of Civil Department who
has directly or indirectly helped me in the completion of the Project work.

Last, but not the least, I would hereby acknowledge and thank my parents who have been a
source of inspiration and also instrumental in the successful completion of the Project work.
 ABSTRACT

Concrete is one of the fundamental materials in civil engineering especially structural

industries. The purpose of this project is to experimentally investigate the effect of
geopolymer concrete by replacing cement. In our project low calcium flyash based
geopolymer concrete is provided. In this concretic geopolymer cement is used instead
of ordinary portland cement, which is obtained from the reaction of low calcium
flyash with the alkaline solution i.e. sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate.This
project constitutes of testing of the geopolymer concrete cube containing varying
proportion of Fly Ash and GGBS for different periods of curing. Thus, after
accumulating all the materials, the molding of the samples for the longest curing
period (say 28 days) is done first and kept for curing. Consecutively, the samples are
then moulded for intermediate curing periods (say 28 days, 14 days and 7 days) and
tested accordingly. The construction industry is in demand of ecofriendly & greener
materials which are durable.As compared to the existing concrete materials fly ash is
advantageous but its uses as tested against strength & durability needs to be
confirmed. The project work emphasis on the research & development activity in
construction materials using fly ash with geopolymers.

Keywords- Geopolymer, Fly Ash, GGBS.

 TABLE OF CONTENT
Abstract iii
Aknowledgement iv

SL NO. TITLE PAGE NO

1. INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 Background 1
1.2 Properties of Geo-polymer concrete 2
1.3 Objective 2
1.4 Scope of the work 2
1.5 Organisation of Report 3
2. LITERATURE REVIEW 4
2.1 Introduction 4
2.2 Geopolymer 4
2.2.1 Terminology and chemistry 4
2.2.2 Source material and alkaline liquids 6
2.2.3 Fields of application 8
2.2.4 Properties of geopolymer 10
3. METHADOLOGY 11
3.1 Introduction 11
3.2 Materials 11
3.2.1 Fly ash 11
3.2.2 Aggregates 12
3.2.3 Alkaline liquid 12
3.2.3.1 Chemicals 12
3.2.3.2 Sodium Hydroxide 12
3.2.3.3 Sodium silicate 13
3.2.3.4 Ground granulated blast furnance slag 13
3.3 Preparation of geopolymer concrete mixes 13
3.4 Curing method 14
4. TEST PROCEDURE 15
4.1 Casting of cubes 15
4.2 Casting of cylinder 15
4.3 Testing of specimens 15
4.4 Curing of test specimens 15
5. PRELIMINARY TESTS 17
5.1 Sieve analysis of fine aggregates 17
5.2 Test on coarse aggregate 18
5.2.1 Aggregate crushing test 18
5.2.2 Specific gravity and water absorption test 20
6. EXPERIMENTAL TESTS 22
6.1 Compressive strength test 22
6.2 Workability of fresh concrete 24
6.3 Split tensile test 26
7. RESULTS 28
7.1 Sieve analysis for fine aggregates 28
7.2 Aggregate crushing test 30
7.3 Specific gravity and water absorption of coarse 32
aggregate
7.4 Compressive strength 34
Final result
7.5 Split tensile strength 43
8. CONCLUSION 47
REFERENCES 48
PHOTO GALLERY 49
 LIST OF FIGURES
Fig 2.1 Chemical structures of polysialates 5

Fig 1.2 Particle size distribution curve 28

Fig 7.1 Consolidated Result for Compressive 34

Strength for 3 days , 7 days and 28 days
(8M NaOH)

Fig 7.2 Compressive strength comparison chart 35

between normal cured and oven dried for 28
days(8M NaOH)

Fig 7.3 Consolidated Result for Compressive 38

Strength (16M NaOH)

Fig 7.4 Compressive strength comparison chart 39

between normal cured and oven dried for 28
days(16M NaOH)

Fig 7.5 Compression strength comparison chart 40

between 8M and 16M NaOH in oven dry
after 28 days of curing
Fig 7.6 Comparison chart between 8M and 16M 43
NaOH Split tensile strength after 28 days
of curing
 LIST OF TABLLES
Table 2.1 Applications of Geopolymeric Materials Based on Si:Al 5
Atomic Ratio

Table 3.1 Geopolymer Mix Design Parameters 13

Table 7.1 Sieve analysis 27

Table 7.2 Aggregate crushing test calculation 29

Table 7.3 Compressive strength after 3 days of curing in air dry at 32

room temperature (8M NaOH)

Table 7.4 Compressive strength after 7 days of curing in air dry at 32

room temperature
(8M NaOH)

Table 7.5 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in air dry at 33

room temperature (8M NaOH)

Table 7.6 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in oven at 35

600C for 24 hours (For 8M NaOH)

Table 7.7 Compressive strength after 3 days of curing in air dry at 36

room temperature

Table 7.8 Compressive strength after 7 days of curing in air dry at 36

room temperature
(16M NaOH)

Table 7.9 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in air dry at 37

room temperature
(16M NaOH)
Study of geopolymer concrete using flyash and GGBS 2016

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials; it is usually associated with
Portland cement as the main component for making concrete. The demand for concrete as a
construction material is on the increase. It is estimated that the production of cement will
increase from about from 1.5 billion tons in 1995 to 2.2 billion tons in 2010.

On the other hand, the climate change due to global warming, one of the greatest
environmental issues has become a major concern during the last decade. The global
warming is caused by the emission of greenhouse gases, such as CO2, to the atmosphere by
human activities. Among the greenhouse gases, CO2 contributes about 65% of global
warming (McCaffrey, 2002).

Many efforts are being made in order to reduce the use of Portland cement in concrete. These
efforts include the utilization of supplementary cementing materials such as fly ash, silica
fume, granulated blast furnace slag, rice-husk ash and metakaolin, and finding alternative
binders to Portland cement. In terms of reducing the global warming, the geopolymer
technology could reduce the carbon-di-oxide emission to the atmosphere caused by Cement
about 80%. The cement industry is responsible for about 6% of all CO2 emissions, because
the production of one ton of Portland cement emits approximately one ton of CO2 into the
atmosphere (Davidovits, 1994c; McCaffrey, 2002). Although the use of Portland cement is
still unavoidable until the foreseeable future, many efforts are being made in order to reduce
the use of Portland cement in concrete. In this project ,the effort was made to study the
strength parameters of geo-polymer concrete.

The term ‘‘Geopolymer’’ was first introduced to the world by Davidovits of France resulting
in a new field of research and technology. Geopolymer also known as ‘inorganic polymer’,
has emerged as a ‘green’ binder with wide potentials for manufacturing sustainable materials
for environmental, refractory and construction applications.

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As far as India is concerned, the first ever study on use of fly ash in concrete was carried out
in 1955 by CBRI, Roorkee(1), in the form of a review of American and Australian research
work on Fly ash. Later, Fly ash was used in small proportions in mass concreting for dams
and other hydraulic.

1.2 Properties of Geo-polymer Concrete

Geopolymer are inorganic binders, which are identified by the following basic properties,
Compressive strength depends on curing time and curing temperature. As the curing time
and temperature increases, the compressive strength increases.

Resistance to corrosion, since no limestone is used as a material, Geopolymer cement has

excellent properties within both acid and salt environments. It is especially suitable for tough
environmental conditions.

1.3 Objectives
1. To make a concrete without using cement (i.e. Geopolymer concrete).
2. The main objective of using Fly ash is to reduce environmental pollutions like water
pollution, air pollution and disposal problems on agricultural lands.
3. To study the effect of concentration of alkaline activator solution in geopolymer
concrete. The molar ratios considered are 8M and 16M Sodium Hydroxide Solutions
are used.
4. Comparative study in curing methods of the geopolymer concrete.

1.4 Scope of the Work

1. To provide high strength concrete.
2. To find an alternative for the ordinary Portland cement..
3. To reduce the CO2 emmission by the cement industries but also utilize the waste
material i.e. flyash.
4. To achieve a new type of concrete which is flexible in nature.

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1.5 Organisation of Report

Chapter 2 gives a brief review of geopolymer technology and the past research on
geopolymers.

Chapter 3 describes the methadology including the materials used, mixture proportions,
manufacture and curing of the test specimens, test parameters, test procedures and equipment
used for the conduct of the tests.

Chapter 4 presents and discusses the test procedures results and the analysis of the results.
Chapter 5 describes about preliminary tests

Chapter 6 presents and discusses the experimental test procedure.

Chapter 7 present and discusses about the results and analysis of results.

Chapter 8 presents the conclusion

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CHAPTER 2:

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This Chapter presents a brief review of the terminology and chemistry of geopolymers, and
past studies on geopolymers.

2.2 Geopolymers

2.2.1 Terminology and Chemistry

The term ‘geopolymer’ was first introduced by Davidovits in 1978 to describe a family of
mineral binders with chemical composition similar to zeolites but with an amorphous
microstructure. He also suggested the use of the term ‘poly(sialate)’ for the chemical
designation of geopolymers based on silico-aluminate (Davidovits, 1988a, 1988b, 1991; van
Jaarsveld et. al., 2002a); Sialate is an abbreviation for silicon-oxo-aluminate.

Poly(sialates) are chain and ring polymers with Si 4+ and AL 3+ in IV-fold coordination with
oxygen and range from amorphous to semi-crystalline with the empirical formula:

Mn (-(SiO2) z–AlO2) n . wH2O (2-1)

where “z” is 1, 2 or 3 or higher up to 32; M is a monovalent cation such as potassium or

sodium, and “n” is a degree of polycondensation (Davidovits, 1984, 1988b, 1994b, 1999).
Davidovits (1988b; 1991; 1994b; 1999) has also distinguished 3 types of polysialates, namely
the Poly(sialate) type (-Si-O-Al-O), the Poly(sialate-siloxo) type (-Si-O-Al-O-Si-O) and the
Poly(sialate-disiloxo) type (-Si-O-Al-O-Si-O). The structures of these polysialates can be
schematised as in Figure 2.1.

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Figure 2.1 Chemical structures of polysialates

Geopolymerization involves the chemical reaction of alumino-silicate oxides (Si2O5,Al2O2)

with alkali polysilicates yielding polymeric Si – O – Al bonds.

Polysilicates are generally sodium or potassium silicate supplied by chemical industry or

manufactured fine silica powder as a by-product of ferro-silicon metallurgy.

Equation 2-2 shows an example of polycondensation by alkali into poly (sialatesiloxo).

𝐍𝐚𝐎𝐇,𝐊𝐎𝐇
(Si2O5, Al2O2)n + nSiO2 + nH2O → n(OH)3 -Si-O-Al-O-Si-(OH)3
|
(OH)2

| | |
𝐍𝐚𝐎𝐇,𝐊𝐎𝐇
n(OH)3 -Si-O-Al-O-Si-(OH)3→ (Na,K)(+) –(-Si-O-Al-O-Si-O-) + nH2O
| | | |
(OH)2 O O O

Unlike ordinary Portland/pozzolanic cements, geopolymers do not form calciumsilicate-

hydrates (CSHs) for matrix formation and strength, but utilise the polycondensation of silica
and alumina precursors and a high alkali content to attain structural strength.

Therefore, geopolymers are sometimes referred to as alkaliactivated alumino silicate binders

(Davidovits, 1994a; Palomo et. al., 1999; Roy, 1999; van Jaarsveld et. al., 2002a). However,
Davidovits (1999; 2005) stated that using the term ‘alkali-activated’ could create significant
confusion and generate false granted ideas about geopolymer concrete.

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For example, the use of the term ‘alkali-activated cement’ or ‘alkali-activated fly ash’ can be
confused with the term ‘Alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR)’ , a harmful property well known in
concrete.

The last term of Equation 2-2 indicates that water is released during the chemical reaction
that occurs in the formation of geopolymers. This water is expelled from the mixture during
the curing process.

2.2.2. Source Materials and Alkaline Liquids

There are two main constituents of geopolymers, namely the source materials and the alkaline
liquids. The source materials for geopolymers based on alumino-silicate should be rich in
silicon (Si) and aluminium (Al). These could be natural minerals such as kaolinite, clays,
micas, andalousite, spinel, etc whose empirical formula contains Si, Al, and oxygen (O)
(Davidovits, 1988c). Alternatively, by-product materials such as fly ash, silica fume, slag,
rice-husk ash, red mud, etc could be used as source materials. The choice of the source
materials for making geopolymers depends on factors such as availability, cost, and type of
application and specific demand of the end users. The alkaline liquids are from soluble alkali
metals that are usually Sodium or Potassium based.

Since 1972, Davidovits (1988c; 1988d) worked with kaolinite source material with alkalis
(NaOH, KOH) to produce geopolymers. The technology for making the geopolmers has been
disclosed in various patents issued on the applications of the socalled “ SILIFACE-Process”.

Swanepoel and Strydom (2002), Phair and Van Deventer (2001; 2002), Van Jaarsveld
(2002a; 2002b) and Bakharev (2005a; 2005b; 2005c) also presented studies on fly ash as
the source material to make geopolymers. Davidovits (2005) reported results of his
preliminary study on fly ash-based geopolymer as a part of a EU sponsored project entitled
‘Understanding and mastering coal fired ashes geopolymerisation process in order turn
potential into profit’ , known under the acronym of GEOASH.

P. K. Jamdade and U. R. Kawade studied the strength of Geopolymer concrete by using

oven curing. In this study Geopolymer concrete is prepared by mixing sodium silicate and
sodium hydroxide with processed fly ash. The concrete is cured at different condition and

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different temperatures i.e; 600 C, 900 C and 1200 C so as to increase the strength of concrete.
It was observed that higher curing temperature resulted in larger compressive strength of
Geopolymer concrete. Also longer curing time improved the polymerization process resulting
in higher compressive strength of Geopolymer concrete.

Kamlesh. C. Shah conducted research on strength parameters and durability of fly ash based
Geopolymer concrete. Different parameters were used such as alkaline liquid to fly ash ratio
of 0.40 ,0.45 and 0.50, ratio of NaOH to Na2 SiO3 2.0 and 2.5, molarities of NaOH; 10M
,12M, 14M and 16M. Compressive strength test, split tensile test were performed under
ambient temperature curing conditions i.e; 600 C, 900 C and 1200 C.

S. Jaydeep and B. J. Chakravarthy prepared an optimum mix for Geopolymer concrete

using admixtures. Concrete cubes of size 150×150×150mm were prepared to find out
compressive strength at 7 and 28 days. Results showed that the addition of sodium silicate
solution to the sodium hydroxide solution as an alkaline activator enhanced the reaction
between the source material and solution. Oven cured specimen gives the higher compressive
strength as compared to direct sunlight curing. It was also observed that geopolymer concrete
is more advantageous, economical and eco- friendly method when compared with
conventional concrete.

Every source material has advantages and disadvantages. For example, metokaolin as a
source material has high dissolvability in the reactant solution, produces a controlled Si/Al
ratio in the geopolymer, and is white in colour (Gourley, 2003). However, metakaolin is
expensive to produce in large volumes because it has to be calcined at temperatures around
5000C – 7000C for few hours. In this respect using waste materials such as fly ash is
economically advantageous.

2.2.3. Fields of Applications

According to Davidovits (1988b), geopolymeric materials have a wide range of applications

in the field of industries such as in the automobile and aerospace, nonferrous foundries and
metallurgy, civil engineering and plastic industries. The type of application of geopolymeric
materials is determined by the chemical structure in terms of the atomic ratio Si:Al in the
polysialate. Davidovits (1999) classified the type of application according to the Si:Al ratio as

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presented in Table 2.1. A low ratio of Si:Al of 1, 2, or 3 initiates a 3D-Network that is very
rigid, while Si:Al ratio higher than 15 provides a polymeric character to the geopolymeric
material. It can be seen from Table 2.2 that for many applications in the civil engineering
field a low Si:Al ratio is suitable.

One of the potential fields of application of geopolymeric materials is in toxic waste

management because geopolymers behave similar to zeolitic materials that have been known
for their ability to absorb the toxic chemical wastes (Davidovits, 1988b). Comrie et. al.,
(1988) also provided an overview and relevant test results of the potential of the use of
geopolymer technology in toxic waste management.

Table 2.1 Applications of Geopolymeric Materials Based on Si:Al Atomic Ratio

Si:Al ratio Applications

1 - Bricks
- Ceramics
- Fire protection
2 - Low CO2 cements and concretes
- Radioactive and toxic waste encapsulation
3 - Fire protection fibre glass composite
- Foundry equipments
- Heat resistant composites, 200 0C to 1000 0C
- Tooling for aeronautics titanium process
>3 - Sealants for industry, 200 0C to 600 0C
- Tooling for aeronautics SPF aluminium
20-25 - Fire resistant and heat resistant fibre composites

Another application of geopolymer is in the strengthening of concrete structural elements.

Balaguru et. al. (1997) reported the results of the investigation on using geopolymers, instead
of organic polymers, for fastening carbon fabrics to surfaces of reinforced concrete beams. It
was found that geopolymer provided excellent adhesion to both concrete surface and in the
interlaminar of fabrics. In addition, the researchers observed

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that geopolymer was fire resistant, did not degrade under UV light, and was chemically
compatible with concrete.

In Australia, the geopolymer technology has been used to develop sewer pipeline products,
railway sleepers, building products including fire and chemically resistant wall panels,
masonry units, protective coatings and repairs materials, shotcrete and high performance fibre
reinforced laminates (Gourley, 2003; Gourley & Johnson, 2005).

2.2.4. Properties of Geopolymer

Previous studies have reported that geopolymers possess high early strength, low shrinkage,
freeze-thaw resistance, sulphate resistance, corrosion resistance, acid resistance, fire
resistance, and no dangerous alkali-aggregate reaction.

Based on laboratory tests, Davidovits (1988b) reported that geopolymer cement can harden
rapidly at room temperature and gain the compressive strength in the range of 20 MPa after
only 4 hours at 200 C and about 70-100 MPa after 28 days.

Comrie et. al., (1988) conducted tests on geopolymer mortars and reported that most of the
28- day strength was gained during the first 2 days of curing.

Geopolymeric cement was superior to Portland cement in terms of heat and fire resistance, as
the Portland cement experienced a rapid deterioration in compressive strength at 3000 C,
whereas the geopolymeric cements were stable up to 6000 C (Davidovits, 1988b; 1994b). It
has also been shown that compared to Portland cement, geopolymeric cement has extremely
low shrinkage.

The presence of alkalis in the normal Portland cement or concrete could generate dangerous
Alkali-Aggregate-Reaction. However the geopolymeric system is safe from that phenomenon
even with higher alkali content.

CHAPTER 3:

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METHADOLOGY

3.1. Introduction

This Chapter describes the methodology. First, the materials, mixture proportions,
manufacturing and curing of the test specimens are explained. This is then followed by
description of types of specimens used, test parameters, and test procedures.

3.2. Materials

The materials used for making fly ash-based geopolymer concrete specimens are

 Fly ash
 Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS)
 Chemicals
- Sodium hydroxide
- Sodium silicate
 Aggregates
- Fine aggregate
- Coarse aggregate

3.2.1. Fly Ash

Fly ash is one of the most abundant materials on the Earth. It is also a crucial ingredient in the
creation of geopolymer concrete due to its role in the geopolymerization process. A pozzolan
is a material that exhibits cementitious properties when combined with sodium hydroxide.
Fly ash is the main by product created from the combustion of coal in coal-fired power
plants. There are two “classes” of fly ash, Class F and Class C. Each class of fly ash has its
own unique properties.

Class C are often high-calcium fly ashes with carbon content less than 2%; whereas, Class F
are generally low-calcium fly ashes with carbon contents less than 5% but

sometimes as high as 10%. In general, Class C ashes are produced from burning sub-
bituminous or lignite coals and Class F ashes bituminous or anthracite coals.

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Performance properties between Class C and F ashes vary depending on the chemical and
physical properties of the ash and how the ash interacts with cement in the concrete.

3.2.2. Aggregates

The aggregates are the main components of the concrete which greatly varies the strength,
density and other properties of the concrete.

Local aggregates, comprising 20 mm coarse aggregates and fine aggregates, in saturated

surface dry condition, were used. The coarse aggregates were crushed granite-type aggregates
and the fine aggregate was fine sand.

3.2.3. Alkaline Liquid

A combination of alkaline silicate solution and alkaline hydroxide solution was chosen as the
alkaline liquid. Sodium-based solutions were chosen because they were cheaper than
Potassium-based solutions.

3.2.3.1 Chemicals

In this project chemicals are the very important constituents. Sodium Silicate liquid and
Sodium Hydroxide pellets are obtained commercially from local suppliers Supraveni
Chemicals Pvt Ltd, Kiadb Industrial Area, Whitefield Main Road, Bangalore.

3.2.3.2 Sodium Hydroxide

The sodium hydroxide solids were of a laboratory grade in pellets form with 99% purity,
obtained from local suppliers. The sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution was prepared by
dissolving the pellets (a small, rounded, compressed mass of a substance of sodium
hydroxide)in water. The mass of sodium hydroxide solids in a solution varied depending on
the concentration of the solution expressed in terms of molar, M. For instance, sodium
hydroxide solution with a concentration of 8M consisted of 8x40 = 320 grams of sodium
hydroxide solids (in pellet form) per liter of the solution, where 40 is the molecular weight of
sodium hydroxide and similarly for 16M NaOH.

3.2.3.3 Sodium Silicate

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Sodium silicate solution (water glass) obtained from local suppliers was used. The chemical
composition of the sodium silicate solution was Na2O=8%, SiO2=28%, and water 64% by
mass. The mixture of sodium silicate solution and sodium hydroxide solution forms the
alkaline liquid.

3.2.4. Ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS or GGBFS)

Ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS or GGBFS) is obtained by quenching molten

iron slag (a by-product of iron and steel-making) from a blast furnace in water or steam, to
produce a glassy, granular product that is then dried and ground into a fine powder.

Ground granulated blast furnace slag comprises mainly of calcium oxide, silicon di-oxide,
aluminium oxide, magnesium oxide. It has the same main chemical constituents as ordinary
portland cement but in different proportions.And the addition of G.G.B.S in Geo-Polymer
Concrete increases the strength of the concrete and also curing of Geo-Polymer concrete at
room temperature is possible.

The chemical composition of GGBS contributes to the production of superior concrete.

It ensures better durability of structures. GGBS is considered as green building material for
sustainable constructions.

3.3 Preparation of Geopolymer Concrete Mixes

Preparation of geopolymer concrete is similar to that of cement concrete.

Fly ash, GGBS and sand were mixed in dry state. Then add prepared mixture solution of
sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate and mix thoroughly for 3-4 min so as to give
homogeneous mix and then coarse aggregate is added and mixed thoroughly. It was found
that the fresh fly ash based geopolymer concrete was viscous,cohesive and dark in color.
After making the homogeneous mix, workability of fresh geopolymer concrete is measured.

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Table 3.1 Geopolymer Mix Design Parameters

Sl No. Design Parameters Value Unit

1. The wet density of geopolymer 2400 Kg/m3
concrete
2. Ratio of sodium silicate to 25 Constant
NaOH
3. Water content chosen for mix 120 Litres
4. Water content in NaSio2 32.44% Percentage
5. Flyash perctentage 10% Percentage
6. GGBS percentage 10% Percentage
7. Coarse aggregate percentage 56% Percentage

3.4 Curing Method

Two types of curing method were used in this study,

• Air dry
• Oven dry

For air dry the test specimens were cured in the room temperature. Three cubes for 8M
NaOH each for 3 days, 7 days and 28 days were cured and also for 16M NaOH three cubes
each for 3 days, 7 days and 28 days were cured.

For oven dry the test specimens were heat cured in oven at a temperature of 60 0 C for 24
hours. Three cubes each for 8M NaOH and 16M NaOH were cured for 28 days.

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CHAPTER 4:

Test Procedure
4.1 Casting of Cubes
The dimensions of all the specimens are identical. The length, width and depth of the cubes
are 150mm. Concrete cubes of side 150 mm are casted and were placed on table vibrator and
vibrated for 2 min for proper compaction of concrete. After compaction of concrete, the top
surface was leveled by using trowel. After 24 hours of casting, all cubes were demoulded.

4.2 Casting of Cylinders

• The metal cylinder of dimension 150x300mm are used for casting concrete test
specimen for split tensile strength.
• Before filling they should be placed on smooth , firm , level surface.
• Fill moulds in two layers and vibrate each layer until the concrete becomes smooth
and there is no further progress of entrapped air bubbles.
• Care shall be taken that the vibrator is withdrawn in such a manner that no air pockets
are left in the specimen.
• After 24 hours of casting , all cylinders were demoulded.

4.3 Testing of Specimens

The compressive strength of size 150x150x150mm cube and split tensile strength of
300x150mm cylinder were obtained at 3,7, and 28 days ages in accordance with IS:516-
1959standard.

4.4 Curing of test specimens

For air dry the test specimens were cured in the room temperature. Three cubes for 8M
NaOH each for 3 days, 7 days and 28 days were cured and also for 16M NaOH three cubes
each for 3 days, 7 days and 28 days were cured.

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For oven dry the test specimens were heat cured in oven at a temperature of 60 0 C for 24
hours. Three cubes each for 8M NaOH and 16M NaOH were cured for 28 days.

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CHAPTER 5:

PRELIMINARY TESTS

5.1 SIEVE ANALYSIS FOR FINE AGGREGATES

Aim: To determine the fine ness modulus and grain size distribution of the given fine
aggregate.

Apparatus: Indian standard test sieves, weighing balance, sieve shaker, trays etc.

Theory: Fineness modulus is defined as “An empirical factor obtained by adding the total
percentages of a sample of the aggregate retained on each of a specified series of sieves, and
dividing the sum by 100.”
A small value indicates a fine material while a large value indicates a coarse material. The
value for fine aggregates commonly ranges from 2.00 to 4.00 and for coarse aggregate from
6.50 to 8.00. Combinations of fine and coarse aggregates have intermediate values.

Procedure:

1. Take one kg of sand from a lab sample of 10 kg and break the lumps if any in a clean
dry rice plate.
2. Arrange the sieves in order of Indian standard sieve numbers 4.75mm, 2.36mm,
1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ, with 4.75 mm at the top and 150µ at the bottom fix them
in the sieve shaking machine with the pan at the bottom and cover at the top.
3. Keep the sand in the top sieve, carry out the sieving in the set of sieves before or not
less than ten minutes and find the mass retained in each sieve.

Weight of sand taken = 1000 gms

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5.2 TEST ON COARSE AGGREGATE

5.2.1 AGGREGATE CRUSHING TEST

Aim: To determine, the aggregate crushing value.

Apparatus: The following apparatus are required for the test.

1. Steel cylinder (diameter-15.2cm, height-13to 14cm)

2. Cylindrical measure (diameter-11.5cm, height-18cm)
3. Steel tamping rod (diameter-1.6cm, length 45 to 60cm)
4. Balance
5. Compression testing machine (capacity-40t, rate of loading-4t/m)

Brief Theory: The stone used as road aggregate should have resistance to crushing under
traffic wheel loads. If the aggregates are weak the stability of the pavement structure is
adversely affected. Aggregates possessing low aggregate crushing value should be preferred.

Procedure:

1. Oven dry aggregate passing 12.5mm IS sieve and retained on 10mm IS sieve is selected
for the test.
2. The sample aggregates in three layers of approximately equal depth and each layer being
tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the tamping rod fill the cylindrical measure.
3. After tamping the third layer, the top surface is leveled using the tamping rod as straight
edge. The test sample weight is taken as W1gms.
4. The cylinder of the test apparatus is placed in position on the base plate & the test sample
is transferred into the cylinder in three layers each layer being tamped 25times.
5. The surface of the aggregate is leveled and the plunger inserted.
6. The Cylinder with the test sample and plunger in position is placed on CTM.
7. Load is then applied through the plunger at a uniform rate of 4tonnes/minutes until the
total load of 40tonnes and then the load is released.

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8. Aggregates including the crushed portion are removed from the cylinder and sieved on a
2.36mm IS sieve, the material which passes this sieve is collected and taken W2 Gms.

Sketch:

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5.2.2 SPECIFIC GRAVITY & WATER ABSORPTION TEST ON

COARSE AGGREGATES

Aim: To determine the specific gravity and water absorption of coarse aggregates.

Apparatus: Balance of capacity 5 kg or more, Weight box, wire basket 200mm in diameter
and 200mm height 4.75mm Indian standard sieve, water tub for immersing the wire basket in
water. Absorbent cloth, suitable arrangement for suspending the wire basket from the center
of scale pan of balance.

Theory: Specific gravity is the characteristic generally used forcalculation of volume

occupied by the aggregate I various mixtures containing aggregate, including Portland
cement concrete, bituminous concrete and other mixtures that are proportioned or analyzed
on an absolute volume basis. Specific gravity is also used in the computation of voids in
aggregates. Apparent specific gravity pertains to the solid material making up the constituent
particles not including the pore space which is accessible to water.

Water absorption values are used to calculate the change in the mass of an aggregate due to
water absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles, compared to the dry
condition, when it is deemed that the aggregate has been in contact with water long enough to
satisfy most of the absorption potential.

The laboratory standard for absorption is that obtained after submerging dry aggregate for a
prescribed period of time. Aggregates mined from below the water table commonly have a
moisture content greater than the absorption determined by this test method, if used without
opportunity to dry prior to use.

Conversely, some aggregates which have not been continuously maintained in a moist
condition until used are likely to contain an amount of absorbed moisture less than the 24-h
soaked condition.

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Procedure:

1. Take about 5 kg of aggregate by method of quartering rejecting all materials passing a

10mm IS sieve.
2. Wash thoroughly to remove dust etc. Dry to constant mass at a temperature of 1050 C
in an oven.
3. Immerse the sample in water at 22 to 320 for 30 minutes for lab practice. In real life
situations, the aggregates are supposed to be immersed in water for 24hrs at the same
temperature as specified above. The combined weight of the aggregates and basket in
water is recorded as A1.
4. Remove aggregates from basket and roll the same in a large piece of absorbent cloth.
Meanwhile the weight of the basket in water is recorded as A2. The weight of
aggregates in water is A= A1- A2 gm.
5. Weigh the aggregate sample in the surface dry condition and note its weight B gm.
6. Dry the aggregate sample to constant weight at 1000 to 1100 C for 24 hours cool room
temperature & weight it as C gm.

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CHAPTER 6:

EXPERIMENTAL TESTS

6.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST

Aim: To determine the compressive strength of concrete

Apparatus: Standard size mould, tamping rod, balance, weight box & compression testing
machine

Brief Theory:

The compressive strength is the capacity of a material or structure to withstand compressive

loads. Compressive strength is maximum force per unit area, in compression, which a
material can withstand before breaking. Many other properties of concrete such as durability,
resistance to shrinkage, Young’s modulus, impervious, etc. are dependent on the compressive
strength of the concrete. Thus the compressive strength reflects the overall quality of
concrete. The compressive strength is usually obtained experimentally by means of
a compressive test.

Strength of concrete increases with age. The compressive strength of concrete of 28 days is
considered as strength of concrete. The strength at 7 days is 67% of strength at 28 days.

considered as strength of concrete. The strength at 7 days is 67% of strength at 28 days.

Procedure:

1. Calculate the material required for the mix.

2. Firstly dry mixing of flyash , GGBS and fine aggregates is done.
3. Then the paste is prepared by adding NaSiO2 and NaOH to the mix.
4. Coarse aggregate is then added and mixed to form geopolymer concrete.
5. The geopolymer concrete was casted in the mould of 150x150 mm.
6. After 24 hours remove the specimen from the mould.
7. After curing for 3 days, 7 days & 28 days, the specimens are tested in compression testing
machine.

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8. The load is increased until the specimen fails. Note down the maximum loading.

SKETCH:

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6.2 Workability of fresh concrete by Slump Test

The concrete slump test is used for the measurement of a property of fresh concrete. The test
is an empirical test that measures the workability of fresh concrete.

Apparatus

 Slump cone,
 Scale for measurement,
 Temping rod (steel)

Procedure:

1. The internal surface of the mould is thoroughly cleaned and applied with a light coat
of oil.
2. The mould is placed on a smooth, horizontal, rigid and nonabsorbent surface.
3. The mould is then filled in four layers with freshly mixed concrete, each
approximately to one-fourth of the height of the mould.
4. Each layer is tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the tamping rod (strokes are
distributed evenly over the cross section).
5. After the top layer is rodded, the concrete is struck off the level with a trowel.
6. The mould is removed from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly in the
vertical direction.
7. The difference in level between the height of the mould and that of the highest point
of the subsided concrete is measured.
8. This difference in height in mm is the slump of the concrete.

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Sketch:

Result: The slump of geopolymer concrete is 183mm

Reference Code:-

IS : 1199 – 1959 – Method of sampling and analysis of concrete

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6.3 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST

Aim: Determine the split tensile strength of the given concrete mix

Apparatus: CTM, bearing plate, trowel, mould, tamping rod etc.

Brief Theory:

Tensile strength is one of the basic andimportant properties of concrete. The concrete is not
usually expected to resist the direct tension because of its low tensile strength and brittle
nature. Measurement of its strength in tension is therefore difficult; methods have therefore
been devised to measure the tensile strength of concrete indirectly. These are (a) Flexural
tensile strength test, (b) Splitting tensile strength test, the latter method gives more uniform
results.

In the split tensile strength test, concrete specimens of cylindrical shape are tested under a
compressive load across the diameter along its length, till the cylinder splits. The cylinder
splits along the loaded diameter due to tensile stress induced. The tension is developed in a
direction at right angles to the line of action of the applied load. The magnitude of the
splitting tensile strength is worked out as follows:

2P
Split tensile strength =
DL

Where, P = load in Newton

D = diameter of specimen

L = length of specimen

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Procedure:

1. Calculate the materials required for the given proportion.

2. Weigh the materials.
3. Mix the materials thoroughly to obtain a uniform mix.
4. Add the required quantity of alkaline liquid and mix well.
5. Fill the mould in two layers.
6. Each layer should be vibrated on the vibrator.
7. After 24 hours remove the specimen from the mould.
8. Now place the specimen in air dry for curing for 28 days.
9. After curing it is tested in compression testing machine.

Sketch:

Diameter of the specimen, D = 150 mm

Length of the specimen, L = 300 mm

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Chapter 7

RESULTS

7.1 Sieve analysis for fine aggregates

Observation & Calculations:

Weight of sand taken = 1000 gms

Table 7.1 Sieve analysis calculation

Percentage Percentage Cumulative

retained passing percentage
Sl. I.S Sieve Weight Retained
No number in gms retained

(%) (%) (%)

1. 4.75 mm 9 0.9 0.9 99.1

2. 2.36 mm 44 4.4 5.3 94.7

3. 1.18 mm 163 16.3 21.6 78.4

4. 600 µm 191 19.1 40.7 59.3

5. 300 µm 468 46.8 87.5 12.5

6. 150 µm 101 10.1 97.6 2.4

7. Pan 24 2.4 100 0

F 253.6
Fineness Modulus = = = 2.536
100 100

Result:

Fineness Modulus = 2.536

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(The range of fineness modulus for fine aggregate is 2.0 to 4.0.)

Graph:

A graph is plotted between Particle size (Sieve size) on X-axis and cumulative percentage
passing on Y-axis. The particle size has a large range from 150 micron to 80 mm. To
accommodate this large particle range this graph is plotted on a semi-log sheet.

Typical well graded sand has the following grain size distribution curve.

Particle Size Distribution Curve

120

100

80
Percentage Finer

60

40

20

0
0.1 1 10
Particle size (mm)

Fig 1.2 Particle Size Distribution Curve

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7.2 Aggregate Crushing Test

Tabular 7.2 Aggregate crushing test calculation

Weight of Aggregate crushing Average

Sample Total weight of aggregate passing value aggregate
number oven dry sample through 2.36mm IS crushing
sieve w2 gm =W2/W1x100% value

1 2.85 1.008 35.35

2 2.842 0.958 33.70 34.54

3 2.86 0.992 34.58

Result: Aggregate crushing value is = 34.54 %

IS Specification:

Indian road congress and ISI have specified that the aggregate crushing value of the coarse
aggregate used for the cement concrete pavement at surface should not exceed 30%. For
aggregates used for concrete other than wearing surfaces the aggregate crushing value should
not exceed 45%.

Technical Discussion:

 The crushing value is a useful guide when dealing with aggregates of unknown
performance particularly when low strength may be suspected. There is no obvious
relation between the crushing value and compressive strength, but the results of the
two tests are in agreement.
 This test measures the quality of the parent rock and assess the nature of the source of
the aggregate.
 This test is not reliable because the materials get crushed before the full load is
applied and gets compacted.
Reference Code: -

 I.S. 2386 Part IV Indian standard methods of test for concrete

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 I.S. 383 Indian Standard specifications for Coarse and fine aggregate
 IRC 15 – 1970 Standard specification and code of practice for construction of
concrete roads

7.3 SPECIFIC GRAVITY & WATER ABSORPTION TEST ON COARSE

AGGREGATES

Observations & Calculations:

Weight of aggregate + basket suspended in water, A1 = 3197 gm

Weight of basket suspended in water, A2 = 1572 gm

Weight of aggregate in water, A = 1625 gm

Weight of saturated surface dry sample, B = 2502 gm

Weight of oven dried aggregate sample in air, C = 2493 gm

C
Bulk specific gravity /specific gravity  = 2.842
BA

C
Apparent specific gravity  = 2.87
CA

(B  C)
Percentage absorption  100 = 0.361
C

Result:

Bulk Specific Gravity = 2.842

Apparent Specific Gravity = 2.87

Percentage absorption = 0.361

Conclusion:

The water absorption values range from 0.1-2%

Specific gravity value range from 2.5-3.

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IS Specification:

The Specific gravity of aggregates normally used in road construction ranges from 2.5 to 3.0
with an average value of 2.68. Though high specific gravity of an aggregate is considered as
an indication of high strength, it is not possible to judge the suitability of the sample of road
aggregate without finding mechanical properties such as aggregate crushing, impact and
abrasion values.

Water absorption of an aggregate is accepted as a measure of its porosity. Some times this
value is considered as a measure of its resistance to frost action. Water absorption value
ranges from 0.1 to 2.0 % for aggregates normally used in road surfacing. Stones with water
absorption upon 4.0 % have been used in base courses. IRC has recommended water
absorption value as 10% for aggregates used in bituminous surface dressings and built- up
spray grout.

Technical Discussion:
 Water absorption is a measure of strength of aggregate. Aggregates having more
water absorption are more porous in nature and are generally considered unsuitable
unless they are found to be acceptable based on strength, impact and hardness tests.
 Specific gravity test helps in the identification of stone.
 Relative density (specific gravity) is the characteristic generally used for calculation
of the volume occupied by the aggregate in various mixtures containing aggregate,
including Portland cement concrete, bituminous concrete, and other mixtures that are
proportioned or analyzed on an absolute volume basis.

Reference Code: IS 2386 part 3 –1963

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7.4 Compressive strength test

Table 7.3 Compressive strength after 3 days of curing in air dry at room temperature
(8M NaOH)
Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 3 150x150 290x103 12.88

2. 3 150x150 287x103 12.75 12.86

3. 3 150x150 292x103 12.97

Table 7.4 Compressive strength after 7 days of curing in air dry at room temperature
(8M NaOH)

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 7 150x150 337x103 14.97

2. 7 150x150 340x103 15.11 15.03

3. 7 150x150 338x103 15.02

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Table 7.5 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in air dry at room temperature
(8M NaOH)
Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 28 150x150 387x103 17.2

2. 28 150x150 392x103 17.42 17.38

3. 28 150x150 394x103 17.51

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Consolidated Result for Compressive strength

17.38
18

16 15.03

12.86
Compressive Strength(N/mm2)

14

12

10
Compressive strength
8

0
3 7 28
No. of days

Fig 7.1 Consolidated Result for Compressive Strength for 3 days , 7 days and 28 days

(8M NaOH)

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Table 7.6 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in oven at 600C for 24 hours
(For 8M NaOH)

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1 28 150x150 742x103 32.97

2 28 150x150 820x103 36.44 33.97

3 28 150x150 730x103 32.44

Comparison between normal cured and oven dried for 28 days(8M NaOH)

33.97
35

30
compressive strength (N/mm2)

25
17.38
20
compressive strength
15

10

0
28 28
No. of days

Fig 7.2 Compressive strength comparison chart between normal cured and oven dried
for 28 days(8M NaOH)

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For 16M NaOH

Table 7.7 Compressive strength after 3 days of curing in air dry at room temperature

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 3 150x150 340x103 15.55

2. 3 150x150 370x103 16.44 16.18

3. 3 150x150 373x103 16.57

Table 7.8 Compressive strength after 7 days of curing in air dry at room temperature

(16M NaOH)

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 7 150x150 435x103 19.33

2. 7 150x150 410x103 18.22 18.22

3. 7 150x150 385x103 17.11

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Table 7.9 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in air dry at room temperature

(16M NaOH)

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1. 28 150x150 520x103 23.11

2. 28 150x150 485x103 21.55 22

3. 28 150x150 480x103 21.33

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Consolidated Result for Compressive Strength

25 22

18.22
20
Compressive Strength (N/mm2)

16.18

15

Compressive Strength
10

0
3 7 28
No. of Days

Fig 7.3 Consolidated Result for Compressive Strength (16M NaOH)

Table 7.10 Compressive strength after 28 days of curing in oven at 600C for 24 hours

(16M NaOH)

Compressive Average

Area, A Max. Load, strength = Compressive

Sl. No. Age (days) W/A strength
(mm2) W (in N)

(in N/ mm2) (in N/ mm2)

1 28 150x150 990x103 44

2 28 150x150 960x103 42.44 42.73

3 28 150x150 940x103 41.77

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Comparison between normal cured and oven dried for 28

days(16M NaOH)

42.73
45

40
Compressive Strength(N/mm)

35

30 22

25
Compressive Strength
20

15

10

0
28 28
No. of Days

Fig 7.4 Compressive strength comparison chart between normal cured and oven dried
for 28 days(16M NaOH)

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Compressive Strength comparison between 8M and 16M NaOH

in oven dry

42.73
45
40 33.97
Compressive strength(N/mm2 )

35
30
25
Compressive strength
20
15
10
5
0
28 28
No. of days

Fig 7.5 Compression strength comparison chart between 8M and 16M NaOH in oven
dry after 28 days of curing

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Final Results:
For 8M NaOH at ambient temperature

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 3rd day = 12.86 N/mm2

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 7th day = 15.03 N/mm2

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 28th day = 17.38 N/mm2

For 8M NaOH oven dried at 600C for 24 hours

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 28th day = 33.97 N/mm2

For 16M NaOH at ambient temperature

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 3rd day = 16.18 N/mm2

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 7th day = 18.22 N/mm2

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 28th day= 22 N/mm2

For 16M NaOH oven dried at 600C for 24 hours

The compressive strength of the geopolymer concrete on 28th day= 42.73 N/mm2

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7.5 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST

Observations & Calculations:

Diameter of the specimen, D = 150 mm

Length of the specimen, L = 300 mm

For 8M NaOH after curing for 28 days

Split Tensile Average Split

Sl. Load at failure, P
Strength = Tensile Strength
No. (N)
2P/  DL (N/mm2) (N/mm2)

1 132.5X103 1.874

2 176.5X103 2.49 2.19

3 157.5X103 2.22

For 16M NaOH after curing for 28 days

Split Tensile Average Split

Sl. Load at failure, P
Strength = Tensile Strength
No. (N)
2P/  DL (N/mm2) (N/mm2)

1 271.6X103 3.83

2 254.60X103 3.59 3.72

3 265.25X103 3.74

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Comparison chart between 8M and 16M NaOH Split tensile strength

for 28 days

3.72
4
Split tensile strength(N/mm2)

3.5
3 2.19
2.5
2 Split tensile strength
1.5
1
0.5
0
28 28
No. of days

Fig 7.6 Comparison chart between 8M and 16M NaOH Split tensile strength after 28
days of curing

Result:

Split tensile strength of the concrete on 28th day ( 8M NaOH) = 2.19 N/mm2

Split tensile strength of the concrete on 28th day ( 16M NaOH) = 3.72 N/mm2

Applications of split tensile strength test results:

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 Knowledge of the tensile strength of concrete is necessary in some of the designs

where tension concrete plays an important part, such as pavement, cracking due to
shrinkage and tension in water retaining structures, etc.
 The determination of tensile strength of concrete is necessary to know the load at
which the concrete member may crack. The cracking is a form of tension failure.

Reference Code:

 IS 5816 – 1970 Splitting Tensile Strength of Concrete Method of Test

 IS 516 – 1959 Method of test for strength

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CHAPTER 8:

CONCLUSION
Based on the experimental investigations carried out on geopolymer concretes, it can be
concluded that

1. Compressive strength increases with increase in concentration of NaOH from 8M to 16M.

2. When heat curing of geopolymer concrete is done then its increases the strength of
concrete.

3. Low calcium fly ash based geopolymer concrete has excellent compressive strength,
exposure to aggressive environment, workability, exposure to high temperature and is
suitable for structural applications.

4. From the comparative study the split tensile strength of the geopolymer concrete is also
increasing proportionate to the increase of the chemical molarity.

Scope for further studies

 The same test can be repeated with superplasticizers.

 Variations can be done for different molarities.
 Variations can be done for different flyash and GGBS percentage.
 Different curing methods can be adopted.

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REFRENCES
[1].
Davidovits, J. (1988b). Geopolymer Chemistry and Properties. Paper presented at the
Geopolymer ’88, First European Conference on Soft Mineralurgy, Compiegne, France.

[2].
Davidovits, J. (1988c). Geopolymers of the First Generation: SILIFACE-Process. Paper
presented at the Geopolymer ’88, First European Conference on Soft Mineralurgy,
Compiegne, France.

[3].
Hardjito, D., Wallah, S. E., & Rangan, B. V. (2002). Research Into Engineering
Properties of Geopolymer Concrete. Paper presented at the Geopolymer 2002 International
Conference, Melbourne.

[4].
Hardjito, D., Wallah, S. E., & Rangan, B. V. (2002b). Study on Engineering Properties of
Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Concrete. Journal of the Australasian Ceramic Society.

[5].
McCaffrey, R. (2002). Climate Change and the Cement Industry. Global Cement and Lime
Magazine (Environmental Special Issue),

[6].
Bakharev, T. 2005. Geopolymeric materials prepared using Class Fly ash and elevated
temperature curing.

[7].
C. Kamlesh. Shah, A. R. Parikh and K. J. Parmar, “Study of Strength Parameters and
durability of Fly ash based Geopolymer Concrete” Indian Journal of Research, Vol. 3, Issue
7, ISSN - 2250-1991, July 2014.

[8].
Shankar H. Sanni and R. B. Khadiranaikar, “Performance of Geopolymer Concrete under
Severe Environmental Conditions” International Journal of Civil and Structural Engineering,
Vol. 3, Issue 2, ISSN 0976 – 4399, November 2012.

[9].
Davidovits, J. (1994b). Properties of Geopolymer Cements. In Kiev (Ed.), First
International Conference on Alkaline Cements and Concretes. Kiev, Ukraine: Kiev State
Technical University.

[10].
Hardjito, D., & Rangan, B. V. (2005). Development and Properties of Low-Calcium Fly
Ash-Based Geopolymer Concrete. Research Report GC1, Perth, Australia

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PHOTO GALLERY

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