Our study systematically investigated the effects of CWP content and activator-to-precursor (Ac/Pr) ratio on the properties of geopolymer mortars. Key findings include:
Enhanced Workability and Strength:
- Increasing CWP content improved workability, with spread values rising from 135 mm to 173.5 mm.
- The optimal mix (21.69% CWP, Ac/Pr = 0.725) achieved a compressive strength of 86.34 MPa at 28 days, surpassing traditional mixes.
Superior Durability:
- Geopolymers with higher CWP content showed exceptional resistance to sulfuric acid, reducing strength loss to just 35.53% after 60 days of exposure.
- Microstructural analysis revealed that CWP promotes the formation of a stable aluminosilicate network, mitigating acid-induced degradation.
Sustainable Innovation:
- By repurposing ceramic waste, our approach aligns with circular economy principles, reducing landfill waste and lowering the carbon footprint of construction materials.
- The study highlights the potential of CWP-rich geopolymers for applications in wastewater treatment and industrial flooring, where chemical resistance is critical.
This research underscores the transformative potential of waste-derived materials in creating durable, eco-friendly construction solutions. For a deeper dive into our methods and results, check out the full paper here.
Join the conversation: How can we further optimize waste-based materials for sustainable construction? Share your thoughts below!