Parametric investigation on the novel and cost-effective nano fly ash impregnated geopolymer system for sustainable construction

Abstract

The hazardous environmental effects of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change demand alternative sources for cementitious materials in the construction industry. The development of geopolymer structures provides a way of producing 100% cement-free construction. In this research work, a novel and simple way of deriving nano particles from waste fly ash particles is promoted. The effect of adding the synthesized nano fly ash particles as a filler medium in geopolymer mortars was investigated by considering strength and durability properties. Parameter optimization was done by using regression analysis on the geopolymer mortar and the impact of adding nano fly ash particles was studied by varying different percentages of addition ranging from 0 to 7.5% by weight of binder content. From the results, it was observed that 1% nano fly ash acted not only as a filler but also as nano-sized precursors of the polymerization process, resulting in denser geopolymer medium. This can explain the extraordinary gain in strength of 72.11 MPa as well as the denser core with negligible level of chloride ion penetration, making the material suitable for the development of structures susceptible to marine environment.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

geopolymer / nano fly ash / chloride ion penetration / durability / polymerization / fillers

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