Comparative study of fire-resistant behaviors of high-calcium fly ash geopolymer mortar containing zeolite and mullite
Ampol Wongsa, Athika Wongkvanklom, Duangkanok Tanangteerapong, Prinya Chindaprasirt
Abstract
This study examined the fire resistance behaviours of high calcium fly ash (HCFA)-based geopolymer mortar incorporating natural zeolite (Z) and mullite (M). Fly ash was replaced by Z and M at the replacement levels of 10%, 20%, and 30% by weight. Workability and compressive strength were investigated. The specimens were then exposed to temperatures of 300 °C, 600 °C, and 900 °C before their compressive strength and microstructure were analysed. The result showed that the use of either Z and M alone and together improved the fire resistance of HCFA geopolymer composite. The improvement in strength was due to the presence of Ye’elimite and Wallastonite formed at high temperatures with the incorporation of Z and M and this was confirmed by SEM and EDX analysis. This study, thus, shows the promising future for a new fire-resistant material in the construction industry.