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Optimization of fly ash based geo-polymer concrete
Date Issued
17-10-2012
Author(s)
Arjun, A.
Michel Laye, J.
Abstract
The implementation of the Response Surface Methodology and the Doehlert Experimental Design in order to optimize the constituents for the production of Geo-polymer concrete using sodium activators; fly ash and GGBS (Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag) being the source materials. From the results of preliminary experimental runs, three variables (i.e., percentage of fly ash, Molarity (M) of the hydroxide solution, and relative percentage of silicate solution) have been identified as the potential variables. Thirteen experimental runs as designed by the Doehlert Design fitted very well to the experimental data that it could be used to navigate the design space according to the Analysis of Variance results. The results obtained were exploited using response surface methodology. These responses have been represented and studied in all experimental regions of percentage of fly ash, molarity concentration, and relative percentage of silicate solution. Optimization of geo-polymer concrete designs for economic viability and incorporation into the infrastructure industry has been carried out. The optimal geo-polymer concrete for a given set of domain is obtained with a global desirability of about 98 percent. The Doehlert design model and assessments can help in making optimal decisions on the constituents related to the production of geo-polymer concrete under any given set of domain and environmental conditions. © 2012 Taylor & Francis Group.