Performance of Fly Ash and Copper Slag based Geopolymer Concrete

Background/Objectives: Recycling and utilization of industrial by-products in the construction industry significantly complements the sustainable technology and development. Geopolymer is a new generation binder material which forms an eco-friendly alternative for the conventional Portland cement binders. Methods/Statistical analysis: This paper aims to analyse the performance of copper slag as an alternative for fine aggregate in geopolymer concrete. The combination of sodium hydroxide solution of 14 moles concentration and sodium silicate are used as an alkaline activator. The ratio between alkaline liquid and fly ash ratio is 0.4 for all the mixtures. The oven temperature at 60˚C for a period of 24 hours and ambient curing conditions are considered. Each specimen tested on the compressive strength, water absorption and density of the concrete. Findings: The test results show that the compressive strength increases with the increase of the copper slag content and a marginal change is observed with the decrease in strength gain as there is increase in the copper slag content. Application/Improvements: These results, thereby substantiates the fact that the copper slag is an alternative material for sand.