Mechanical, durability and microstructural assessment of geopolymer concrete incorporating fine granite waste powder

This research investigation has mainly focused on the development of cementless concrete, i.e., geopolymer concrete, along with the reutilization of industrial fine granite waste powder (FGWP). FGWP was re-utilized as fractional substitution of natural fine sand (NFS) in the manufacturing of geopolymer concrete in varying amounts—0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. Mechanical performance evaluation tests like compressive strength test, flexural strength test and static modulus of elasticity test were carried out in this research study to investigate the influence of fractional substitution of NFS by FGWP. Impact energy of geopolymer concrete samples was also evaluated using drop weight test. Durability characteristics of geopolymer concrete were assessed through ultra-sonic pulse velocity (UPV), water absorption test, water permeability test and carbonation test. Micro-structural analysis was also carried out using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). For environmental impact assessment, embodied energy (EB-E) and embodied carbon dioxide (EB-CO₂) were determined through ecological analysis. Test outcomes reflected that incorporation of FGWP up to 15% proved very propitious and enhanced mechanical strength properties and durability characteristics of geopolymer concrete.