Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Framework of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes

International Journal of Chemistry | Vol 9, No. 6, June 2018 | pp. 41–48

DOI: 10.46882/2018/IJC/000117

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Framework of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes

Names of Authors: T. S. Ani¹, M. F. de Oliveira²*

Authors’ Affiliations:
¹Department of Electronic and Chemical Engineering, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria.
²Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon, Portugal.

Abstract: Developing high-performance geopolymer grouts from industrial materials decreases production carbon footprints, though enhancing mechanical integrity requires structural optimization via carbon nanomaterial additives. This research tracks the structural development and mechanical profiles of geopolymer cements synthesized from ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) integrated with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at dosages from 0% to 1.5% by weight. Alkaline activation was executed utilizing structural mixtures of sodium silicate and 12 M sodium hydroxide solutions. Hardening kinetics and microstructural phases were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). FT-IR spectra demonstrated the formation of a rigid silicate network, indicated by the prominent framework stretching bands shifting to 1015 cm⁻¹. Compressive strength experiments showed that grout cubes prepared with 1.0% MWCNT substitution reached a maximum compressive value of 61.2 MPa after 28 days of curing at room temperature, outperforming pure slag controls. SEM characterization revealed a highly dense matrix featuring bridging networks across micro-cracks, which significantly reduces internal cracking.

Keywords: Geopolymer grout; Slag activation; Carbon nanotubes; Compressive strength; Microstructure; C-S-H gel networks

Manuscript Timeline: Received: January 14, 2017; Revised: February 18, 2017; Accepted: March 12, 2017; Published: June 03, 2018.

Citation: Ani, T. S., & de Oliveira, M. F. (2018). Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Framework of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes. International Journal of Chemistry, 9(6), 41–48.

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