Structural analysis of composite metakaolin-based geopolymer concrete

  • Fernando Pelisser Federal University of Santa Catarina
  • Bruno do Vale Silva Adamantinenses University
  • Manuela H. Menger Federal University of Santa Catarina
  • Bruna J Frasson Federal University of Santa Catarina
  • Tchesare A Keller Santa Catarina Extreme South University
  • André J Torii Federal University of Paraíba
  • Rafael H Lopes Federal University of Santa Catarina

Abstract

The study of alternative binders to Portland cement, such as geopolymer cements, offers the chance to develop materials with different properties. With this purpose, this study evaluated experimentally the mechanical behavior of a geopolymer concrete beam and compared to a Finite Element (FE) nonlinear numerical model. Two concrete beams were fabricated, one of Portland cement and another of metakaolin-based geopolymer cement. The beams were instrumented with linear variable differential transformers and strain gauges to measure the deformation of the concrete and steel. Values for the compressive strength of the two beams are close (50 MPa), while the tensile rupture strength is higher (131 kN) for the geopolymer concrete beam than for the Portland cement sample (121 kN). Distinct failure mechanisms were verified between the two samples, with an extended plastic deformation of the geopolymer concrete, revealing post-fracture toughness. The geopolymer concrete showed higher tensile strength and better adhesion in cement-steel interface.

Author Biographies

Fernando Pelisser, Federal University of Santa Catarina
Civil Engineering Department
Bruno do Vale Silva, Adamantinenses University
Civil Engineering Department
Manuela H. Menger, Federal University of Santa Catarina
Civil Engineering Department
Bruna J Frasson, Federal University of Santa Catarina
Civil Engineering Department
Tchesare A Keller, Santa Catarina Extreme South University
Civil Engineering Department
André J Torii, Federal University of Paraíba
Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Rafael H Lopes, Federal University of Santa Catarina
Civil Engineering Department
Published
2018-06-07
Section
Artigos