Characterization of geopolymer concrete with fly ash, micro silica fumes, and waste rubber aggregates

Abstract

Fossil fuel burning and chemical processes involved in the production of cement result in the continuous emission of harmful air pollutants like carbon monoxide, NOx, SOx, etc. Further, these pollutants have hazardous effects on the environment, like depletion of the ozone layer, the greenhouse effect, global warming, etc., exacerbating the situation. Stone is a fundamental component of cement, and its overexploitation has resulted in landscape deterioration, habitat destruction, landscape degradation, water contamination, etc. Geopolymer concrete (GPC) can be used as a substitute for cement concrete in construction applications. The production of GPC utilizing fly ash and micro silica fume has gotten minimal attention. In the present study, GPC has been synthesized at room temperature using Class C fly ash and micro silica fume as substitutes for cement, whereas aggregates have been prepared from waste rubber. The results of mechanical characterization have indicated that the strength parameters enhanced by 3-4% and the microstructural characteristics exhibited effective binding capabilities of GPC, including waste materials. This work serves as a baseline for future research on the incorporation of waste materials into sustainable construction materials.