A novel green hybrid Alkali Activated Binder; experimental and optimization modeling

Currently, the world is facing a challenge of global warming. The primary cause is believed to be excessive greenhouse gas emissions. Among these gases, CO2 is the single most contributor. About 6 to 8% of it is associated with the cement manufacturing industry. Calcium carbonate, along with clayey materials, is the dominant raw material used in OPC manufacturing. However, more than half of the CO2-emissions during the manufacturing of OPC results from the calcination of calcium carbonate. To mitigate the carbon footprint associated with this process, there has been a concerted effort globally to curtail the use of OPC in producing cementitious binders by incorporating industrial waste materials. Besides, a new binder, known as an alkaliactivated binder (AAB) formed by alkali activation, has been extensively explored recently. Generally, AABs are formed by the fusion of precursor materials, mostly aluminous and siliceous in nature, due to the presence of an alkaline activator. Several natural materials and industrial byproducts have the potential to be developed into AABs. Consequently, research is underway to develop these binders using natural materials and industrial byproducts, particularly the latter. These materials are energy efficient and also solve the environmental issue related to the disposal of industrial byproducts. As such, there is a need to explore the possibility of utilizing indigenous natural materials and industrial byproducts in AAB development. This interdisciplinary research study focuses on developing a novel AAB, in which abundantly available calcium carbonate (CaCO3) will be used as the main precursor and other indigenous waste materials. The efficiency of the precursor materials will be enhanced using the thermos-chemical process. The developed AAB will be tested to evaluate its fresh and hardened properties, microstructure, morphology, and mineral and compound composition. Molecular simulation of the products will be carried out. Models to optimize the composition of AABs for the desired properties will be developed. The developed material will contribute to a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of the Kingdom, thereby fulfilling one of the main objectives of Vision 2030. Also, the development of AAB using indigenous natural materials and industrial waste materials will result in technical, environmental, and economic benefits to the Kingdom