Sustainable High-strength Geopolymer Concrete Incorporating Ultrafine Fly Ash and Ultrafine GGBS
J. Environ. Nanotechnol., Volume 14, No 4 (December 2025) pp. 176-184
Abstract
The increasing global demand for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)-based concrete, driven by rapid urbanization and infrastructure development, poses significant environmental challenges, including high CO₂ emissions, depletion of natural aggregates, and reduced structural durability in aggressive environments. This study investigates an eco-sustainable alternative, ambient-cured geopolymer concrete (GPC), produced by partially replacing ultrafine fly ash (UFFA) with ultrafine ground granulated blast furnace slag (UFGGBS) in proportions ranging from 0% to 50% in 10% increments, with a total binder content fixed at 400 kg/m³ and activated with 10-molar sodium hydroxide and a sodium silicate-to-sodium hydroxide ratio of 2:1. This study distinguishes itself by utilizing ultrafine variants of industrial by-products to enhance reactivity and performance, representing a key advancement over conventional geopolymer mixes. Mechanical properties (compressive, flexural, and split-tensile strength) and durability indicators (water absorption and sorptivity) were evaluated. Results show that replacing UFFA with UFGGBS significantly enhanced early and long-term mechanical performance, with the F50G50 mix (50% UFFA and 50% UFGGBS) achieving the highest 28-day compressive strength (58.20 MPa), flexural strength (8.73 MPa), and split-tensile strength (6.54 MPa). Durability improved through reduced water absorption (28.74% lower than control) and sorptivity (57% reduction), attributed to the refined pore structure and denser aluminosilicate gel formation. This research supports the adoption of geopolymer technology as a viable pathway toward resource conservation, CO₂ emission reduction, and sustainable infrastructure development.
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Reference
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