Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Performance of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Nano-Silica Particles

International Journal of Chemistry | Vol. 7, No. 10, October 2016 | pp. 73–80

DOI: 10.46882/2016/IJC/000097

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Performance of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Nano-Silica Particles

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 wastes decreases production carbon footprints, though enhancing mechanical integrity requires structural optimization via reactive nanomaterial additives. This research tracks the structural development and mechanical profiles of geopolymer cements synthesized from ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) integrated with nano-silica (nano-SiO₂) particles at dosages from 0% to 3.0% 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 1012 cm⁻¹. Compressive strength experiments showed that grout cubes prepared with 2.0% nano-silica substitution reached a maximum compressive value of 58.4 MPa after 28 days of curing at room temperature, outperforming pure slag controls. SEM characterization revealed a highly dense matrix featuring intense structural crosslinking of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel structures, which significantly reduces internal cracking.

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

Manuscript Timeline: Received: January 14, 2016; Revised: February 18, 2016; Accepted: March 12, 2016; Published: October 05, 2016.

Citation: Ani, T. S., & de Oliveira, M. F. (2016). Mechanochemical Properties and Microstructural Performance of Slag-Based Geopolymer Grout Reinforced with Nano-Silica Particles. International Journal of Chemistry, 7(10), 73–80.

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