Using colemanite waste as binding material and aggregate in the geopolymer production

In this thesis study, the mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer mortars produced using fly ash and blast furnace slag as binders, along with the utilization of colemanite waste as both binder and aggregate, were investigated. A total of 10 different mortar series were produced and cured only at room temperature. The results of ultrasonic pulse velocity, compressive strength, and flexural strength were examined at 7, 28, and 90 days. High-temperature testing was conducted at temperatures of 300, 600, and 900°C. Freeze-thaw testing was performed with 15 cycles on 90-day-old samples. To examine the solution effect, magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) and sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) solutions with a concentration of 10% were used. Each series was immersed in the solutions for 2 and 4 months. After durability tests, weight, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and strength losses were examined. Following the high-temperature test, a decrease in remaining strength was observed, with the values at 900°C being higher than those at 600°C. It was observed that the series 5KUK, 20KUK, and 25AK, which contained colemanite waste as an additive, yielded better results in the high-temperature test. In the freeze-thaw test, it was determined that the series 10KUK, 20KUK, 5AK, 15AK, and 25AK, which contained colemanite waste as an additive, had better results. The results varied in the sulfate solution effect, and the series 10KUK and 20KUK, which contained colemanite waste, showed a decrese in strength loss rate.