Date of Graduation

12-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSCE)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Civil Engineering

Advisor/Mentor

Micah Hale

Committee Member

Gary Prinz

Second Committee Member

Cameron Murray

Keywords

Alternative Binder, Concrete, Geopolymer

Abstract

Although there are several perceived benefits from the use of geopolymer binder as an alternative to ordinary portland cement in concrete materials, it is not widely used in field applications. Geopolymer materials have no set guidelines for mixture design and often require heat curing to facilitate strength gain. Additionally, many geopolymers are created using carefully controlled and high quality materials and activator chemicals. These factors greatly affect the practicality of the material. The goal of this research was to create a geopolymer material capable of achieving high compressive strengths at 28 days without heat curing, and using only readily available and cost effective materials. The material developed in this study is expected to see practical use in field applications. As a result of this study, a non-heat cured geopolymer mortar achieving a compressive strength of over 8,000 psi at 28 days was developed using local sand, Class C fly ash, and readily available commercial grade chemicals. Modulus of elasticity was also examined during the course of research. Through the process of refining a mixture design, several design factors affecting compressive strength were considered. The results of the several batches made in the refinement process could be used in the development of future materials with a target compressive strength and stiffness.

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