Optimizing the mechanical properties of geopolymer paste containing calcined clay and Dust clinker by Taguchi method

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Chemistry, University of Sistan and Baluche stan, Zaheda n, Iran.

2 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan. Iran.

3 University of Sistan and Baluchestan

Abstract

Given that environmental pollution is one of the major concerns in today’s societies, geopolymer cement is an innovative material in the construction industry with high performance and favorable efficiency. The production of geopolymer cement using pozzolans and aluminosilicate wastes, which are environmentally friendly, can serve as an alternative to conventional concrete production, addressing the pollution associated with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) production. This research focuses on synthesizing geopolymer cement based on calcined clay from the Bidester region in Khash City, enhancing its mechanical strength by adding fine clinker from rotary kilns. The experiments were designed using the Taguchi method. Taguchi’s L16 array was proposed, and 16 experiments were designed. The Al/Na ratio was set at one. Various levels of silica modulus of the activating solution (0, 0.9, 1, and 1.1), the percentage of fine clinker addition (0, 5, 10, and 15), and the water-to-solid ratio (0.25, 0.3, 0.35, and 0.4) were assessed as influencing factors, with the a28-day strength as the response factor. Samples were maintained under 70% humidity at 23°C in a humidity cabinet. Results indicated that with optimal factors of a silica modulus of 1.1, a water-to-solid ratio of 0.25, and a 15% additive percentage, an average compressive strength of 81.24 MPa can be achieved, exceeding that of conventional OPC paste.

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Main Subjects

References

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Amirkabir Journal of Civil Engineering
Volume 57, Issue 2
2025
Pages 247-270

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