Synergistic use of nano-silica to enhance the characterization of ambient-cured geopolymer concrete

As global urbanization flourishes, the adverse effects on the environment also incredibly increase. This urbanization leads to the evolution of construction and building materials. To meet the requirements of eco-balanced construction materials without compromising their original properties, many evolutions of concrete are in practice nowadays. One such evolution of concrete is geopolymer concrete. The objective of the current study is to produce high-strength geopolymer concrete using ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), metakaolin (MK), and nano-silica (NS) in ambient-cured conditions. The influence of nano-silica in the geopolymer concrete is evaluated by workability, setting time, mechanical strength, durability properties, and microstructural analyses, which include scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and correlation analysis. In this research, the effect of nano-silica on formulating the equation for modulus of elasticity was determined. Nano-silica was replaced at a percentage of 1, 2, and 3% of the binder material. It is summarized that the molar ratios and properties of the precursor materials are the defining factors in altering the systems of geopolymer concrete. The highest strength of 89.4 MPa at 28 days of ambient-cured concrete with outstanding durability performance was achieved.