In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a groundbreaking study led by Mir Alimohammad Mirgozar Langaroudi from the Department of Civil Engineering at Islamic Azad University, Fouman, Iran, has shed new light on the potential of geopolymer mortars. The research, published in ‘Infrastructures’, delves into the mechanical properties and durability of fiber-reinforced geopolymer mortars containing metakaolin and glass powder, offering promising insights for the construction industry and the energy sector.
The study investigates the use of metakaolin and glass powder as supplementary aluminosilicate materials in slag-based geopolymer mortars, aiming to enhance their mechanical properties and durability. By incorporating polypropylene fibers at various dosages, the research team developed 13 unique mixtures, each with different combinations of these materials. The results reveal that glass powder, particularly at a replacement percentage of 10%, leads to an improvement in the 28-day compressive strength. Furthermore, the mixes containing glass powder demonstrated higher flexural strength compared to those containing metakaolin, irrespective of the volume percentage of fibers.
The findings highlight the critical importance of maintaining precise proportions of these additives. “The impact of polypropylene fibers was complex, with fiber content of 0.2% generally improving strength, while 0.4% fiber content often led to strength reductions,” explains Mirgozar Langaroudi. This delicate balance is crucial for optimizing the performance of geopolymer mortars, which are increasingly seen as a sustainable alternative to traditional cement-based materials.
The study also utilized a fuzzy inference system to predict compressive strength, demonstrating that the compressive strength of the mortar can be predicted with an error of less than 1% without the need for complex mathematical calculations. This predictive model could revolutionize the way geopolymer mortars are designed and implemented in construction projects, particularly in the energy sector where durability and sustainability are paramount.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the construction industry grapples with the environmental impact of traditional cement production, geopolymer mortars offer a promising solution. By reducing the reliance on Portland cement, which accounts for 7% to 10% of global CO2 emissions, geopolymer mortars could significantly lower the carbon footprint of the construction sector. This is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where infrastructure projects often require durable and sustainable materials to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
The study’s findings also underscore the potential of artificial intelligence in optimizing geopolymer concrete formulations. By employing modern techniques such as fuzzy logic, researchers can predict the mechanical properties of geopolymer mortars with high accuracy, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable construction practices. This could lead to significant cost savings and improved performance in the long run, making geopolymer mortars an attractive option for energy infrastructure projects.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the research by Mir Alimohammad Mirgozar Langaroudi and his team provides a roadmap for developing more sustainable and durable materials. By leveraging the unique properties of geopolymer mortars and the predictive power of artificial intelligence, the industry can move towards a more environmentally friendly future. The study, published in ‘Infrastructures’, serves as a testament to the innovative spirit driving the field of sustainable construction, offering a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.