PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE USING FINER FRACTION OF RAP AGGREGATES

Abstract

Geopolymer concrete offers environmental benefits by significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions associated with traditional Portland Cement production. Unlike traditional cement, which has a high carbon footprint, geopolymers utilize industrial by-products and require lower energy consumption, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, the incorporation of waste materials, such as fly ash or slag, in geopolymer production helps recycle industrial residues, reducing the overall environmental impact associated with concrete construction. RAP aggregates are reclaimed and recycled asphalt-bounded aggregates obtained from old asphalt pavements that are distressed and have reached the end of service life. In geopolymer concrete, the utilization of RAP aggregate is beneficial for sustainable construction practices. It reduces the demand for new natural aggregates, minimizing environmental impact by repurposing existing materials. Additionally, incorporating RAP in geopolymer concrete aligns with waste reduction efforts, contributing to resource conservation and energy efficiency in the construction industry. Fly Ash (FA) and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) are extensively studied for their performance in both laboratory settings and field implementations. Researchers conduct laboratory experiments to assess their mechanical properties, durability, and environmental impact. Furthermore, field implementations involve applying these materials in real-world construction projects to evaluate their performance under actual conditions. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of how Fly Ash and GGBS contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of construction materials and practices. The thesis focuses on the utilization of FA-GGBS-based geopolymer concrete incorporating fine RAP (Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement) aggregates. It explores the mechanical properties in terms of strength and durability of the designed mixes. The research work investigates the performance of geopolymer concrete with varying proportions of finer fractions of RAP aggregates (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%), aiming to assess its feasibility as a sustainable and high-performance construction material.