The unconfined compressive strength of fly-ash geopolymer-stabilized sand.

Cement is frequently utilized in the chemical stabilization of soil. However, the rising use of conventional cement contributes to environmental health issues and global warming. Therefore, eco-friendly geotechnical engineering materials must be modernized. In this study, geopolymer was utilized as a stabilizing agent for sand. Geopolymer consists of waste materials such as fly ash that are reacted with an alkaline activator to form an eco-friendly binder material comparable to conventional cement. 12 M and 14 M solutions of sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide compose the alkaline activator (NaOH). This investigation aims to determine the unconfined compressive strength. Variables for testing include molarity, alkaline activator ratio (Na2SiO3: NaOH) ratios of 1 and 2, and curing time (7 and 14 days). Using the brittleness index (IB) value, the stress response of the specimen will be assessed to determine brittleness or ductility. After 14 days, the compressive strength of 14 M was greater than that of 12 M. Greater Unconfined compression strength corresponds to a greater activator ratio. The unconfined compressive strength and the IB rose with curing age, as did the IB. IB with a molarity of 14 M is more brittle than IB with a molarity of 12 M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]