Effect of synthesis parameters on the alkali activation reaction degree and the relationship between reaction degree and microstructure of fly ash-based geopolymers

Wenrui Xu, Zhuo Tang, Youjun Xie, Guangcheng Long, Huimei Zhu, Mingfeng Kai, Lei Peng, Lixing Wang, Saifurahman Zaland

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study systematically explored the impact of various parameters on the alkali activation reaction degree of fly ash-based geopolymers (FABGs) using the acid solubility test method. Key parameters such as the alkali activator modulus (AAM), alkali dosage (AD), and water-to-fly ash ratio (W/FA) were considered. The micromorphology, phase composition, and pore characteristics of FABGs were also examined, and the relationship between the alkali activation reaction degree and these microstructural characteristics was analyzed. The alkali activation reaction was relatively rapid during the early curing stage but slowed down in the later stage. The influence of synthesis parameters on the alkali activation reaction degree ranked from highest to lowest as AAM, W/FA, and AD. According to Spearman correlation analysis, the alkali activation reaction degree of FABGs is positively correlated with AAM and AD, and negatively correlated with W/FA. As the alkali activation reaction degree increases, the number of pores, cracks, and partially reacted FA particles decreases, and the bonding between FA particles and the matrix becomes denser. FABGs with higher alkali activation reaction degrees exhibit greater mass loss at 100–700 °C, indicating higher production of gel phases. Additionally, the pores in FABGs are predominantly gel pores and transition pores. Notably, there is a negative correlation between porosity and the alkali activation reaction degree of FABGs.

Original languageEnglish
Article number109874
JournalJournal of Building Engineering
Volume93
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Sept 2024

Keywords

  • Alkali activation reaction degree
  • Fly ash-based geopolymer
  • Gel phases content
  • Micromorphology
  • Pore structure characteristics

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Building and Construction
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Mechanics of Materials

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