Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of construction materials, more specifically, relates to a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete based on fly ash (FA), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), and a natural bio-admixture to enhance mechanical properties, workability, and durability.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Construction materials are the foundation of the built environment, providing essential strength, durability, and functionality for infrastructure development. The field encompasses the study, selection, and application of various materials used in buildings and infrastructure, ranging from traditional options such as concrete, steel, wood, bricks, glass, and composites to emerging sustainable alternatives. The choice of materials depends on key factors like mechanical strength, durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact. With advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability, the construction industry is increasingly adopting eco-friendly solutions to reduce carbon emissions and enhance material performance. The ongoing development of innovative construction materials aims to improve structural integrity, energy efficiency, and long-term sustainability, shaping the future of modern infrastructure.
[0003] Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally due to its availability, affordability, strength, and durability. It is extensively used in the construction of buildings, roads, bridges, dams, and other infrastructure projects. Its versatility allows it to be molded into various shapes, and its strength can be enhanced with reinforcements like steel.
[0004] Traditional concrete compositions, primarily based on ordinary portland cement (OPC), have several inherent disadvantages that impact both environmental sustainability and structural performance. One of the major drawbacks is the high carbon footprint associated with OPC production, as the calcination of limestone releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), contributing to global warming. Additionally, OPC-based concrete exhibits limited durability in aggressive environments, making it susceptible to chemical attacks, high temperatures, and freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to premature deterioration.
[0005] The extraction of natural resources such as limestone, clay, and aggregates for traditional cement production further contributes to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Moreover, OPC concrete often requires the use of chemical additives to enhance workability, which can increase construction costs and introduce sustainability concerns.
[0006] Traditional concrete mixtures often result in non-homogeneous compositions, as improper mixing or segregation of components can cause inconsistencies in strength, durability, and long-term performance. Variations in material quality and moisture content further impact the reliability of OPC-based concrete, making it less predictable in demanding applications. These limitations highlight the need for an alternative construction material that is cost-efficient, environmentally sustainable, and compositionally uniform.
[0007] The present invention overcomes the limitations of the prior art by providing a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete using fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as binders, eliminating the need for OPC. The composition further incorporates egg albumen, as a natural bio-admixture, to enhance strength, viscosity, and workability, and alkaline activators to improve durability and polymerization. The composition significantly reduces carbon emissions, resource depletion, and environmental impact, offering a greener alternative to conventional concrete.
[0008] Thus, in light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0009] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0010] According to illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure focuses on a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or provide the users with a useful or commercial choice.
[0011] The present invention overcomes all the above major limitations of a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete.
[0012] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete with improved mechanical properties, durability, and environmental benefits.
[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to incorporate egg albumen as a natural bio-admixture to enhance mechanical strength, viscosity, cohesion, and workability of the geopolymer concrete composition.
[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a composition with improved durability and resistance against aggressive environments, chemical attacks, high temperatures, and freeze-thaw cycles.
[0015] Another objective of the present disclosure is provide a sustainable and eco-friendly composition with reduced carbon emissions and environmental impact.
[0016] Another objective of the present disclosure is to incorporate alkaline activators to facilitate polymerization, enhance the binding properties, and improve the overall durability and mechanical performance of the concrete composition.
[0017] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to ensure a uniform and homogeneous composition by optimizing binder distribution, alkaline activation, and bio-admixture integration, resulting in consistent mechanical properties and durability.
[0018] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to achieve better workability and compaction through the controlled use of water and superplasticizers to ensure ease of placement and finishing.
[0019] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a cost-effective and resource-efficient composition.
[0020] In light of the above, in one aspect of the present disclosure, a composition for producing a geopolymer concrete is disclosed herein. The composition comprises at least two binders in a pre-defined quantity with cementitious and geopolymerization-enhancing properties. The composition also includes a fine aggregate in a pre-defined quantity with particle size distribution and load-bearing properties. The composition also includes coarse aggregates in a pre-defined quantity with strength and durability-enhancing properties. The composition also includes a natural bio-admixture in a pre-defined quantity with strength-enhancing, cohesion-improving, and workability-modifying properties. The composition also includes at least two alkaline activators in a pre-defined quantity with polymerization and setting properties. The composition also includes a solvent in a pre-defined quantity with solubilizing properties.
[0021] In light of the above, in another aspect of the present disclosure, a sustainable composition for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete is disclosed herein. The composition comprises fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as binders to provide aluminosilicate sources necessary for geopolymerization and strength development. The composition also includes sand as a fine aggregate to improve the packing density, reduce voids, and enhance the workability of the composition. The composition also includes crushed stones as coarse aggregates to provide structural integrity, load-bearing capacity, and durability to the composition. The composition also includes egg albumen as a natural bio-admixture to modify viscosity, enhance mechanical strength, improve cohesion, and optimize the workability of the composition. The composition also includes sodium hydroxide solution and sodium silicate as alkaline activators to dissolve aluminosilicates, initiate polymerization reactions, and contribute to the setting and hardening of the composition. The composition also includes water as a solvent to facilitate the dissolution of alkaline activators, promote chemical reactions, and ensure uniform mixing of all components.
[0022] In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a superplasticizer in a concentration ranging from 0.5%-1% for improving flowability, reducing water demand, and enhancing the workability of the composition without compromising its mechanical properties.
[0023] In one embodiment, the composition comprises sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solution in a 2:1 ratio by weight.
[0024] In one embodiment, the composition includes fly ash (FA) at 60-70 wt.% of binders, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) at 30-40 wt.% of binders, sand at 40-50 wt.% of total composition, crushed stones at 50-60 wt.% of total composition, egg albumen at 3 wt.% of binders, sodium hydroxide solution at 320g/L to 480g/L, sodium silicate at 640 g/L to 1200 g/L, and water in a sufficient quantity.
[0025] In light of the above, in another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete is disclosed herein. The method comprises sieving and mixing fly ash (FA) at 60-70 wt.% of binders and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) at 30-40 wt.% of binders thoroughly in a mechanical mixer to achieve uniform blending. The method also includes adding sand at 40-50 wt.% of total composition and crushed stones at 50-60 wt.% of total composition to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 2-3 minutes. The method also includes adding an alkaline activator solution comprising sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solution in a 2:1 ratio by weight gradually to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 3-4 minutes until a uniform consistency is achieved. The method also includes extracting and filtering fresh egg albumen, followed by mixing it with a small quantity of water to make a 3% egg albumen solution. The method also includes incorporating the egg albumen solution into the blended mixture under continuous stirring for 2 minutes to enhance workability and viscosity. The method also includes adding a small quantity of water alternatively a superplasticizer to further improve workability. The method also includes pouring the prepared geopolymer concrete mix into molds. The method also includes finishing the surface of the molded concrete with a trowel to achieve a smooth finish. The method also includes curing the mixture in an oven at a temperature range of 60-80°C for 24 hours to obtain a hardened geopolymer concrete with improved mechanical properties.
[0026] In one embodiment, the molded geopolymer concrete mix is subjected to vibration using vibrating tables to remove air voids and ensure proper compaction.
[0027] In one embodiment, the cured mixture is demolded after 24 hours and exposed to open air for gradual cooling, moisture stabilization, and continued strength development.
[0028] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0029] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0030] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0032] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a composition for producing a geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates a composition being a sustainable composition for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method, outlining the sequential steps for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0036] Like reference, numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawing.
[0037] The composition and method for producing sustainable bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0038] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0039] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It may be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0040] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0041] The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0042] The terms “having”, “comprising”, “including”, and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a composition 100 for producing a geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0044] The composition 100 may include at least two binders 102 in a pre-defined quantity with cementitious and geopolymerization-enhancing properties, a fine aggregate 104 in a pre-defined quantity with particle size distribution and load-bearing properties, coarse aggregates 106 in a pre-defined quantity with strength and durability-enhancing properties, a natural bio-admixture 108 in a pre-defined quantity with strength-enhancing, cohesion-improving, and workability-modifying properties, at least two alkaline activators 110 in a pre-defined quantity with polymerization and setting properties, and a solvent 112 in a pre-defined quantity with solubilizing properties.
[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates a composition 100 being a sustainable composition 200 for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0046] The sustainable composition 200 may include fly ash (FA) 202 and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) 204 as binders 102, sand 206 as a fine aggregate 104, crushed stones 208 as coarse aggregates 106, egg albumen 210 as a natural bio-admixture 108, sodium hydroxide solution 212 and sodium silicate 214 as alkaline activators 110, and water 216 as a solvent 112.
[0047] FA 202 acts as one of the binders 102 in the composition 200, providing the essential aluminosilicate sources required for geopolymerization and strength development. FA 202 is a finely divided residue generated from the combustion of pulverized coal. The particles of FA 202 are smaller than cement particles and have a spherical shape, which enhances the workability of the composition 200. FA 202 contains silica and alumina, which react with the alkaline activators 110 to form an aluminosilicate gel. This gel acts as a binding phase, enhancing the cohesion and structural integrity of the composition 200.
[0048] In one embodiment of the present invention, FA 202 further provides high resistivity to the composition 200 for sustaining aggressive environments and high temperatures compared to normal concrete. FA 202 improves the density, strength, and durability of the concrete, making it more resistant to chemical attacks, high temperatures, and environmental degradation.
[0049] GGBS 204 also serves as one of the binders 102 in the composition 200, playing a crucial role in providing aluminosilicate sources necessary for geopolymerization and strength development. GGBS 204 is an industrial by-product obtained from the iron and steel manufacturing process, where molten blast furnace slag is rapidly cooled using water or steam to produces a glassy, granular material that is later dried and finely ground into a powder. GGBS 204 contains high levels of alumina (Al₂O₃), silica (SiO₂), magnesia (MgO), and calcium (CaO), which contribute to the formation of a durable and cohesive matrix within the geopolymer concrete. GGBS 204 acts as one of the binders 102 by reacting with alkaline activators 110 to dissolve its silica, alumina, and calcium content, forming calcium-aluminosilicate-hydrate and sodium-aluminosilicate-hydrate gels. These gels create a strong, dense matrix that binds aggregates together, enhancing the concrete's strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors.
[0050] GGBS 204 enhances mechanical strength of the composition 200, improves its workability, and increases resistance to chemical attacks by promoting dense microstructural development. The high calcium content of GGBS 204 further aids in early strength gain, making the composition 200 more durable and sustainable compared to conventional cement-based alternatives.
[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, GGBS 204 helps reduce heat generation during the hydration process, making it particularly beneficial for large concrete structures by minimizing thermal stress and the risk of cracking.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition 200 further comprises a superplasticizer 218 in a concentration ranging from 0.5%-1% for improving flowability, reducing water demand, and enhancing the workability of the composition 200 without compromising its mechanical properties.
[0053] Sand 206 acts as a fine aggregate 104 in the composition 200, playing a vital role in improving the packing density, reducing voids, and enhancing workability. Fine aggregates are granular materials that pass through a 4.75 mm sieve and primarily consist of smaller particles compared to coarse aggregates 106. Sand 206 helps to fill the spaces between the larger coarse aggregates 106, ensuring a more compact and cohesive mix. This improved particle distribution contributes to the overall strength, durability, and structural integrity of the composition 200, reducing permeability and enhancing resistance to external environmental factors.
[0054] Crushed stones 208 act as coarse aggregates 106 in the composition 200 to provide structural integrity, load-bearing capacity, and durability. Coarse aggregates 106 help distribute weight evenly and enhance the mechanical strength of the composition 200. The angular shape and rough texture of crushed stones 208 improve the bond between aggregates and the binders, reducing shrinkage and enhancing resistance to cracking. Further, crushed stones 208 contribute to the overall stability of the composition 200, ensuring long-term performance under various environmental and loading conditions.
[0055] Egg albumen 210 acts as a natural bio-admixture 108 in the composition 200, playing a key role in modifying viscosity, enhancing mechanical strength, improving cohesion, and optimizing workability. Egg albumen 210 helps modify viscosity, ensuring a well-balanced consistency that prevents segregation and enhances the ease of placement of the composition 200. The ability of egg albumen 210 to enhance mechanical strength contributes to improved compressive and tensile performance, making the concrete more resilient to structural loads. Egg albumen 210 comprises calcium (Ca) and sodium (Na) which influences the concrete mixture by promoting better particle dispersion and improving the overall binding properties of the composition 200. Egg albumen 210 also reduces the overall water demand of the composition 200, enhancing flowability and ensuring a more uniform and workable consistency. This results in improved placement, reduced segregation, and enhanced durability of the final hardened structure of the composition 200.
[0056] Sodium hydroxide solution 212 and sodium silicate 214 serve as essential alkaline activators 110 in the composition 200, playing a crucial role in the geopolymerization process. These alkaline activators 110 dissolve the aluminosilicate compounds present in the binders 102, such as FA 202 and GGBS 204, breaking them down into reactive species. This dissolution initiates polymerization reactions, leading to the formation of a three-dimensional aluminosilicate gel network that binds the aggregates and enhances the structural integrity of the composition 200.
[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, sodium hydroxide solution 212 further regulates the pH of the composition 200, ensuring optimal reaction conditions.
[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention, sodium hydroxide solution 212 has a molarity range of 8M to 12M. This highly alkaline environment helps dissolve aluminosilicate materials, initiating the polymerization reactions necessary for geopolymer concrete formation. Thus, this molarity range ensures optimal reaction conditions for geopolymerization and setting of the composition 200.
[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition 200 comprises sodium silicate 214 and sodium hydroxide solution 212 in a 2:1 ratio by weight.
[0060] Water 216 acts as a solvent 112 in the composition 200 to facilitate the dissolution of the alkaline activators 110, such as sodium hydroxide solution 212 and sodium silicate 214, promote chemical reactions, and ensure uniform mixing of all components. This dissolution process is essential for initiating geopolymerization, where aluminosilicate sources react to form a strong, durable matrix. Additionally, water 216 helps in achieving a uniform and homogenous mixture by ensuring even dispersion of all components, enhancing the workability and consistency of the geopolymer concrete. Water 216 is vital to optimizing the setting time, mechanical properties, and overall performance of the final composition 200.
[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the composition 200 includes fly ash (FA) 202 at 60-70 wt.% of binders 102, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) 204 at 30-40 wt.% of binders 102, sand 206 at 40-50 wt.% of total composition 200, crushed stones 208 at 50-60 wt.% of total composition 100, egg albumen 210 at 3 wt.% of binders 102, sodium hydroxide solution 212 at 320g/L to 480g/L, sodium silicate 214 at 640 g/L to 1200 g/L, and water 216 in a sufficient quantity.
[0062] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300, outlining the sequential steps for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0063] The method 300 may include at step 302, sieving and mixing fly ash (FA) 202 at 60-70 wt.% of binders 102 and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) 204 at 30-40 wt.% of binders 102 thoroughly in a mechanical mixer to achieve uniform blending.
[0064] In one embodiment of the present invention, FA 202 and GGBS 204 are sieved by passing them through 90µm sieve to ensure uniform particle size.
[0065] At step 304, adding sand 206 at 40-50 wt.% of total composition 200 and crushed stones 208 at 50-60 wt.% of total composition 200 to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 2-3 minutes.
[0066] At step 306, adding an alkaline activator solution comprising sodium silicate 214 and sodium hydroxide solution 212 in a 2:1 ratio by weight gradually to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 3-4 minutes until a uniform consistency is achieved.
[0067] At step 308, extracting and filtering fresh egg albumen 210, followed by mixing it with a small quantity of water 216 to make a 3% egg albumen solution. This controlled preparation process ensures the effective dispersion of egg albumen 210 within the composition 200.
[0068] At step 310, incorporating the egg albumen solution into the blended mixture under continuous stirring for 2 minutes to enhance workability and viscosity.
[0069] At step 312, adding a small quantity of water 216 alternatively a superplasticizer 218 to further improve workability by enhancing the flowability and reducing the viscosity of the mixture. Water 216 aids in achieving the desired consistency, while a superplasticizer 218 can significantly reduce water demand while maintaining or improving workability. This step ensures a well-mixed, homogenous composition 200 that is easier to handle, mold, and place, contributing to the overall quality and performance of the geopolymer concrete.
[0070] At step 314, pouring the prepared geopolymer concrete mix into molds to shape it into the desired form.
[0071] In one embodiment of the present invention, the molded geopolymer concrete mix is subjected to vibration using vibrating tables to remove air voids and ensure proper compaction.
[0072] At step 316, finishing the surface of the molded concrete with a trowel to achieve a smooth finish.
[0073] At step 318, curing the mixture in an oven at a temperature range of 60-80°C for 24 hours to obtain a hardened geopolymer concrete with improved mechanical properties.
[0074] In one embodiment of the present invention, the cured mixture is demolded after 24 hours and exposed to open air for gradual cooling, moisture stabilization, and continued strength development.
[0075] In another embodiment of the present invention, curing may be carried out at ambient room temperature for 7 to 28 days, allowing natural strength development. This method is particularly suitable for large-scale applications where oven curing is not feasible.
[0076] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the sustainable composition 200 is developed by preparing three different formulations incorporating 1%, 2%, and 3% egg albumen by weight of the binder. Among the three formulations tested, the 3% egg albumen concentration emerged as the best formulation, demonstrating the best mechanical properties, achieving a compressive strength increase from 3 N/mm² to 20.67 N/mm². This enhancement is attributed to the ability of the egg albumen 210 to improve cohesion, reduce porosity, and optimize the internal structure of the geopolymer concrete. The observations confirm that increasing the percentage of the natural bio-admixture 108 positively impacts the overall strength and durability of the composition 200.
[0077] The present invention offers a significant advancement in sustainable construction by integrating egg albumen 210 as a natural bio-admixture 108 in geopolymer concrete, resulting in improved mechanical strength, enhanced workability, and environmental benefits. The composition 200 exhibits a remarkable compressive strength of 20.67 N/mm² with 3% egg albumen 210 while simultaneously reducing water demand and improving flowability. By eliminating OPC and utilizing industrial by-products like FA 202 and GGBS 204, the invention substantially reduces CO₂ emissions and resource depletion, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative. The present invention is a synergistic composition rather than a mere admixture of components, as each ingredient interacts in a complementary manner to enhance the overall performance of geopolymer concrete. The combination of FA 202 and GGBS 204 provides essential aluminosilicate sources for geopolymerization, while alkaline activators 110 dissolve these precursors to initiate polymerization, forming a durable and cohesive matrix. Egg albumen 210, beyond being an additive, actively influences the mixture by modifying viscosity, improving cohesion, and enhancing mechanical properties. The composition 200 ensures that each element contributes to the structural integrity, reduced permeability, and enhanced durability of the concrete. The interactions between the natural bio-admixture 108, binders 102, and alkaline activators 110 create a well-integrated, high-performance material that optimizes workability, sustainability, and long-term stability, making it an innovative and commercially viable solution for eco-friendly construction.
[0078] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0079] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0080] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0081] In a case that no conflict occurs, the embodiments in the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments may be mutually combined. The foregoing descriptions are merely specific implementations of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A composition (100) for producing a geopolymer concrete, the composition (100) comprising:
at least two binders (102) in a pre-defined quantity with cementitious and geopolymerization-enhancing properties;
a fine aggregate (104) in a pre-defined quantity with particle size distribution and load-bearing properties;
coarse aggregates (106) in a pre-defined quantity with strength and durability-enhancing properties;
a natural bio-admixture (108) in a pre-defined quantity with strength-enhancing, cohesion-improving, and workability-modifying properties;
at least two alkaline activators (110) in a pre-defined quantity with polymerization and setting properties; and
a solvent (112) in a pre-defined quantity with solubilizing properties.
2. The composition (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition (100) comprising:
fly ash (FA) (202) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) (204) as binders (102) to provide aluminosilicate sources necessary for geopolymerization and strength development;
sand (206) as a fine aggregate (104) to improve the packing density, reduce voids, and enhance the workability of the composition (200);
crushed stones (208) as coarse aggregates (106) to provide structural integrity, load-bearing capacity, and durability to the composition (200);
egg albumen (210) as a natural bio-admixture (108) to modify viscosity, enhance mechanical strength, improve cohesion, and optimize the workability of the composition (200);
sodium hydroxide solution (212) and sodium silicate (214) as alkaline activators (110) to dissolve aluminosilicates, initiate polymerization reactions, and contribute to the setting and hardening of the composition (200); and
water (216) as a solvent (112) to facilitate the dissolution of alkaline activators, promote chemical reactions, and ensure uniform mixing of all components.
3. The composition (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition (100) further comprises a superplasticizer (218) in a concentration ranging from 0.5%-1% for improving flowability, reducing water demand, and enhancing the workability of the composition (100) without compromising its mechanical properties.
4. The composition (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition (100) comprises sodium silicate (214) and sodium hydroxide solution (212) in a 2:1 ratio by weight.
5. The composition (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition (100) includes fly ash (FA) (202) at 60-70 wt.% of binders (102), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) (204) at 30-40 wt.% of binders (102), sand (206) at 40-50 wt.% of total composition (100), crushed stones (208) at 50-60 wt.% of total composition (100), egg albumen (210) at 3 wt.% of binders (102), sodium hydroxide solution (212) at 320g/L to 480g/L, sodium silicate (214) at 640 g/L to 1200 g/L, and water (216) in a sufficient quantity.
6. A method (300) for producing a bio-enhanced geopolymer concrete, the method (300) comprising:
sieving and mixing fly ash (FA) (202) at 60-70 wt.% of binders (102) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) (204) at 30-40 wt.% of binders (102) thoroughly in a mechanical mixer to achieve uniform blending;
adding sand (206) at 40-50 wt.% of total composition (200) and crushed stones (208) at 50-60 wt.% of total composition (200) to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 2-3 minutes;
adding an alkaline activator solution comprising sodium silicate (214) and sodium hydroxide solution (212) in a 2:1 ratio by weight gradually to the blended mixture under continuous mixing for 3-4 minutes until a uniform consistency is achieved;
extracting and filtering fresh egg albumen (210), followed by mixing it with a small quantity of water (216) to make a 3% egg albumen solution;
incorporating the egg albumen solution into the blended mixture under continuous stirring for 2 minutes to enhance workability and viscosity;
adding a small quantity of water (216) alternatively a superplasticizer (218) to further improve workability;
pouring the prepared geopolymer concrete mix into molds;
finishing the surface of the molded concrete with a trowel to achieve a smooth finish; and
curing the mixture in an oven at a temperature range of 60-80°C for 24 hours to obtain a hardened geopolymer concrete with improved mechanical properties.
7. The method (300) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the molded geopolymer concrete mix is subjected to vibration using vibrating tables to remove air voids and ensure proper compaction.
8. The method (300) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the cured mixture is demolded after 24 hours and exposed to open air for gradual cooling, moisture stabilization, and continued strength development.