Assessment of Durability and Degradation Resistance of Geopolymer Composites in Water Environments

Abstract

This article presents experimental studies on the characterization of geopolymer composites intended for applications in aquatic environments, with particular emphasis on underwater infrastructure. The motivation for conducting the research was the growing need to develop durable and ecological building materials that will be resistant to long-term exposure to moisture and aggressive chemical agents, typical for the underwater environment, where traditional cement concretes undergo gradual degradation due to long-term water impact, including hydrotechnical and underwater infrastructure. Geopolymer binders were produced based on metakaolin activated by alkaline solutions containing sodium hydroxide. Several series of mixtures with additives such as blast furnace slag, amphibolite and carbon fibers were developed to evaluate the effect of these components on mechanical strength, water absorption and chemical durability. The conducted studies showed that slag additions improved mechanical properties, for the best composition it across 50 MPa. In contrast, the addition of amphibolite had an unfavorable effect, which probably results from introducing inhomogeneity into the material structure. The presence of carbon fibers promoted matrix cohesion, but their uneven distribution could lead to local strength differences. Water absorption tests have shown that geopolymers reach full water saturation within 24 to 48 h, which indicates rapid establishment of capillary equilibrium and limited further water penetration. The conclusions from the work indicate that geopolymer composites with a moderate amount of blast furnace slag and subjected to appropriate curing conditions. High strength, water and chemical resistance make them suitable for, among others, the construction of marine foundations, protection and structural shields of submerged applications.

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