This research paper is mainly concerned with the production of lightweight geopolymer concrete using expanded poelystyrene (EPS) beads as part replacement of the normal aggregates for precast building components as well as in sandwich construction, the information on properties of lightweight geopolymer concrete with different percentage of EPS bead aggregate is given and it is also compared with the with the existing guidelines (ASTM C 90). Furthermore, performance of EPS/geopolymer concretes is discussed in relation to their flammability and insulation characteristics (Techniques used; DSC (Differential scanning calorimetry, based on heat difference), TG/DTA (Differential thermal analysis, based on temperature difference) and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) under quasi-isothermal mode). Geopolymers as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement for concrete is used because it has high early compressive strength, low drying shrinkage, good fire resistance and superior durability in aggressive environment compared to Portland cement concrete. Geopolymers are produced through reactions between the alumino-silicate reactive materials (metakaoline, slag, fly ash etc) and their strength and microstructural properties are studied under fresh and hardened states. The selection of EPS bead aggregate was made mainly due to its low density, closed cellular structure, hydrophobic and energy absorbing characteristics.
Experiment
Materials
* Class F fly ash. * Two types of beads, 4.75 - 8 mm and 1- 4.75 mm. * Natural sand. * Sand stone coarse aggregates. * Polycarboxylate based superplasticizer (Glenium 51) and Styrene butadiene styrene latex (SBR, BASF Make) * Reagent (sodium Hydroxide and sodium silicate)
Preparation of samples * Fly ash mixed with the activating
