Experimental Studies On Durability Characteristics Of Geopolymer Concrete And Conventional Concrete

Abstract

Concrete Is Widely Used In Construction For Its Strength, Adaptability, And Ease Of Availability. Despite These Advantages, Durability Under Harsh Environmental Conditions Remains A Significant Concern. This Thesis Examines The Durability Performance Of Four Concrete Mixes: Mix 1 (Conventional M40 Concrete), Mix 2 (M40 With Glass Fiber), Mix 3 (Geopolymer Concrete), And Mix 4 (Geopolymer Concrete With Glass Fiber). The Study Evaluates Critical Durability Parameters Including Water Absorption, Acid And Alkali Resistance, Shrinkage, And Sorptivity. The Addition Of Glass Fiber Improved Micro-crack Resistance And Internal Bonding, While Geopolymer Binders Offered Enhanced Chemical Durability. Among The Mixes, Mix 4 Showed The Most Promising Results, With Reduced Water Absorption, Lower Shrinkage, And Superior Resistance To Chemical Attacks. Sorptivity Testing Further Confirmed That Geopolymer-based Mixes Exhibited Lower Capillary Absorption, Indicating Better Moisture Resistance. These Findings Demonstrate The Potential Of Geopolymer Concrete, Especially When Combined With Glass Fibers, As A Durable And Sustainable Alternative To Traditional Concrete In Aggressive Environments.

Keywords