EFFECT OF ALKALI ACTIVATOR CONCENTRATION ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

Geopolymer concrete has gained attention as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement concrete because of its environmental benefits and promising engineering performance. It is produced through the reaction of aluminosilicate materials with alkaline solutions, resulting in a hardened binder system with good strength and durability. This study examines the effect of alkali activator concentration on the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete. The study investigates how variations in the concentration of the alkaline activator influence important mechanical properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and workability. Geopolymer concrete samples may be produced using suitable source materials such as fly ash, metakaolin, or ground granulated blast furnace slag, activated with varying concentrations of sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate solutions. Standard laboratory tests may then be carried out on the cured specimens. The findings are expected to reveal that alkali activator concentration significantly affects the mechanical performance of geopolymer concrete. Higher concentrations may improve compressive and tensile strength up to an optimum level, beyond which performance may reduce due to excessive alkalinity, rapid setting, or poor workability. The study concludes that alkali activator concentration is a critical factor in the production of geopolymer concrete and must be carefully controlled to achieve desirable mechanical properties. It recommends further optimization of mix design parameters for improved structural performance and sustainability.