Improving mechanical characteristics of lightweight geopolymers through me- chanical activation of fly ash

Author(s): Tijana G. Ivanović, Miroslav M. Komljenović, Nataša M. Džunuzović, Violeta M. Ni-kolić and Gordana G. Tanasijević
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Materials, Systems and Structures (SMSS2019) New Generation of Construction Materials
Editor(s): Marijana Serdar, Nina Štirmer, John Provis
ISBN: 978-2-35158-217-6,
Vol 1. ISBN: 978-2-35158-223-7
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-218-3
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2019
Pages: 574-581
Total Pages: 8
Language : English

Abstract: The present paper investigated the influence of mechanical activation of fly ash and various parameters, such as curing temperature and concentration of foaming agent (Al powder), on physical-mechanical characteristics of lightweight geopolymers. Prior to alkali activation, fly ash was mechanically activated in a high energy planetary ball mill. Lightweight geopolymers were obtained by mixing the mechanically activated fly ash with various amounts of Al powder and sodium silicate solution (SiO2/Na2O mass ratio of 1.5). Geopolymer paste samples were cured covered in plastic either at room temperature for 28 days or at elevated temperature (95 oC) for 4 hours. It was observed that the mechanical activation of fly ash resulted in a drastic increase of geopolymer compressive strength regardless of curing conditions, preserving the lightweight properties at the same time. The lightweight geopolymers based on mechanically activated fly ash might be used both in constructive and insulating applications.
Key words: mechanical activation, lightweight geopolymers, compressive strength, aluminum powder

Online publication : 2019
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00