Synthesis and characterization of one-part geopolymer from fly ash and water treatment sludge

Author

Vuong T. Ho

Date of Publication

2017

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Chemical Engineering

College

Gokongwei College of Engineering

Department/Unit

Chemical Engineering

Thesis Adviser

Aileen H. Orbecido
Michael Angelo B. Promentilla

Defense Panel Chair

Lawrence P. Belo

Defense Panel Member

Luis F. Razon
Cynthia F. Madrazo
Nathaniel P. Dugos
Jonathan R. Dungca

Abstract/Summary

Development of geopolymer from wastes or by-products introduces a sustainable approach to replace ordinary Portland cement (OPC) - based concrete with an eco-material of lower green-house gases emissions. However, safety concerns related to the conventional two-part geopolymer has limited large-scale applications of the product. With the aim of developing a one-part geopolymer from coal fly ash and water treatment sludge, this study has focused on finding the optimal formulation for the binder. In particular, alkaline dosage and mixing proportion of each precursor were examined.

Raw aluminosilicate sources were activated by two alkali activators including sodium hydroxide and sodium aluminate. Effects of each components as well as interactions between them were accessed by step wise regression analysis. Chemical bonding, microstructural and mineralogical characteristics of raw materials were determined by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses. Also, the transformation of raw materials to geopolymer was indicated by FTIR, SEM and XRD analyses.

It was found that high alkali content decreased the compressive strength of binder. Meanwhile, the incorporation of sludge in this system helps reduce the unit weight of samples. Multiple response analysis that maximized compressive strength and minimized unit weight resulted in the optimal combination of 18.86% sludge, 76.14% fly ash and 5% NaOH. Acid resistance test has proved that the new binder had great durability against sulphuric acid attack. After 28 days immersion in 5% H2SO4 solution, compressive strength of the binders was significantly increased. It was demonstrated that strong acid immersion did not create any noticeable effect on the weight and strength of one-part geopolymer system developed from coal fly ash and water treatment sludge.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTG007116

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

1 computer disc ; 4 3/4 in.

Keywords

Water treatment plant residuals; Fly ash; Binders (Materials)

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS