Performance of flyash based geopolymer tiles

Abstract

Increasing global focus on rapid infrastructure development has resulted in a tremendous demand for cement. During cement production large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) are released into the atmosphere contributing to the serious problem of global warming. One of the grave consequences is the negative impact on the climatic conditions, the weathergets hotter and people opt for artificial cooling systems like Air Conditioners, Air Coolers etc. for respite from the heat. Such usage adds to the further pollution of the already fragile environment by releasing harmful gases into the atmosphere. It is a far better option to adopt measures to reduce the heat inside the buildings by using thermally insulative materials in concrete. A promising trend observed of late in the construction industry is the popular use of the new eco-friendly material, geopolymer which can be effectively used for a wide range of diverse applications. Geopolymer utilizes flyash as its source material and alkaline activators to make a cement-free concrete that has the significant advantage of zero CO2 emission. Development of geopolymer tiles is a commendable step towards adoption ofgreen practices especially as environmental issues have become a major concern today. Flyash reacts with sodium-based alkaline solution and produces a new product called geopolymer which is an inorganic alumina-silicate product. Tests reveal that geopolymer has excellent physical and mechanical properties along with good acid resistance newline