In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a groundbreaking study led by Adel Kassem Farag Gaddafi, from the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Benghazi, has unveiled a promising solution that could revolutionize the industry. The research, published in Discover Materials, focuses on enhancing fly ash (FA)-based geopolymer mortars by incorporating ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), eco-processed pozzolana (EPP), and palm oil clinker (POC) sand. The findings offer a compelling narrative of how the construction sector can significantly reduce its carbon footprint while improving the performance and cost-effectiveness of building materials.
The study addresses a critical environmental concern in cement production: the high carbon dioxide emissions associated with traditional manufacturing processes. By integrating GGBS into FA-based geopolymers, the research team has demonstrated a practical and energy-efficient method for room-temperature curing, a significant departure from the high-temperature curing typically required.
The results are nothing short of impressive. According to the study, incorporating 20% and 30% GGBS into the geopolymer mortars led to a remarkable 76% increase in compressive strength at 7 days and a 56% increase at 28 days. This enhancement in strength is attributed to the formation of calcium silicate hydrate gel, which densifies the matrix and improves the overall structural integrity of the mortar. As Gaddafi explains, “The addition of GGBS not only enhances the mechanical properties but also contributes to a more sustainable construction practice by utilizing industrial by-products.”
Moreover, the 30% GGBS mix showed a 6.1% increase in density and a 12% improvement in ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) at 28 days, indicating a denser and more robust material. The use of POC sand, while reducing the overall density, produced lightweight mortars that meet international standards, offering a viable alternative for applications where weight reduction is crucial.
The economic implications of this research are equally compelling. The shift to ambient temperature curing reduces costs by approximately $6 per cubic meter, making the process more affordable and accessible. This cost reduction, coupled with the enhanced performance and sustainability of the materials, positions FA-GGBS geopolymer mortars as a game-changer in the construction industry.
The study’s findings have far-reaching implications for the energy sector, particularly in regions where energy-intensive processes are a significant concern. By adopting these sustainable materials, construction projects can achieve substantial energy savings and reduce their carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals. As the demand for eco-friendly construction materials continues to grow, this research paves the way for future developments in the field, offering a blueprint for integrating industrial by-products into high-performance building materials.
The research, published in Discover Materials, underscores the potential of innovative materials science to drive sustainable development in the construction industry. As we look to the future, the integration of GGBS, EPP, and POC sand into geopolymer mortars represents a significant step forward in creating a more sustainable and cost-effective construction landscape.