Geopolymer concrete is a relatively new material. It’s eco-friendly and very similar to concrete we already use today. Keep reading for more, and visit our website to learn about other new materials.
Technically, in 1978 Joseph Daidovits gave the name “geopolymer” to materials that are categorized by chains or networks of inorganic molecules. Basically, geopolymer concrete is similar to Portland concrete, one of the most common types of cement for general use that is utilized around the world.
Geopolymer concrete is actually stronger and more eco-friendly than Portland cement, and we’ll tell you why. The geopolymer cement concrete materials are made from utilizing other waste products, such as fly ash and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). Fly ash is generated as a waste product from thermal power plants. Similarly, GGBS is generated as a waste product from steel plants.
Fly ash and GGBS are processed using appropriate technology. Utilizing these waste products to create something new is not only great for recycling purposes but also helps prevent the carbon emissions that are involved with creating new Portland cement.
As for its strength, it measures up quite nicely to the Portland variety. Geopolymer concrete gains its compressive strength quicker and faster than Portland cement. It also has less drying shrinkage, an important note for thicker and heavily-restrained projects. If you’ve been reading our blogs, you know how detrimental shrinkage can be to projects of any size.
Geopolymer concrete has been used for construction of pavements, retaining walls, water tanks and precast bridge decks, with more projects being added all the time. We’re looking forward to seeing more concrete structures with this eco-friendly material. To learn about using green materials and processes in your next project, contact us today.