Result description
This study examines the effects of chemical admixtures—a superplasticizer, an anti-sedimentation agent, and a defoaming agent—applied at various dosages and in different combinations, as a strategy to improve the workability of geopolymers while preserving their mechanical performance. Techniques such as TG-DTA, FTIR, XRD, MIP, nitrogen adsorption, SEM-EDX, and compressive strength testing were used to assess their impact. The findings emphasize the importance of careful selection and combination of admixtures and offer new insights for practical application. Except when all three admixtures were used together, the workability of the geopolymers improved, along with a significant reduction in open porosity and macropores. 28-day compressive strengths ranging from 41–74 MPa were lower than that of the reference geopolymer (77 MPa). Depending on the admixtures used, this reduction was linked to superplasticizer degradation, a lower degree of polymerization in the N-A-S-H gel, and weakened interfacial bonding caused by mullite particles randomly embedded within the gel.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- Collaboration
We are looking for:
The practical application of mineral fractions as aggregates in the development of concrete for special pavement. The direct application of the mineral fraction, after grinding and sieving without calcining, will avoid CO2 emissions, eliminate energy use, and substantially reduce operational costs.
·The application of geopolymers as building and road construction materials, environmental engineering, and the mining industry,
·Use in agriculture and in land recultivation
·Application of Foamed Geopolymers Membranes for Wastewater Purification
- Research and Technology Organisations
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
The work package WP5 is targeted at developing geopolymer binders from the calcinated mineral-bearing coal waste. The conditions to synthesize geopolymer binders were optimized.
The next step:
The study of the durability of geopolymer
The preparation of foamed geopolymer for high-added-value products for ultrafiltration of wastewater purification media.
Feasibility study of geopolymer production
