Investigation of mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer composites which include different fiber and mineral additives

In today's times, concrete is the most used material in the construction industry. Concrete is widely used because of readily availability of its components, being economical and not having many alternatives, has become debatable with its positive features as well as some negative features. It is known that approximately 7% of the total carbon dioxide emission in the world is caused by cement production. In addition, 12-15% of the energy consumed in the industrial field during cement production. Economic and environmental problems arising from cement production necessitate the production of a binder that can be an alternative to Portland cement in order to prevent major problems that may occur in the future. At this point, geopolymer has come forward as a good building material that can be an alternative to Portland cement. Carbon dioxide is not released in geopolymeric chemical reactions and it is known that they are more efficient and environmentally friendly in terms of energy required in production compared to Portland cement. In the production of geopolymer, 40% metakaolin + 20% mineral additive (fly ash, blast furnace slag) and a certain amount of red mud were used as binding material. 12M sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate solution were used as alkali activator. Sodium hydroxide/Sodium silicate ratio was determined as 1:2. Recycled aggregate and marble powder was used in equal proportions as aggregate. In order to examine the effect of fibers on mortars, mechanical and durability tests were carried out using various fiber and fiber ratios.