Biologically reinforced geopolymer composites

A series of studies detailing the characteristics of biologically reinforced geopolymers is presented. Cork particle reinforced sodium geopolymer composites were shown to have a maximum flexural strength of 2.5 MPa, and an average strain-to-failure of 0.75%. Abaca fiber reinforced sodium geopolymer composites had flexural strengths exceeding 25 MPa. The main focus of this study was abaca fiber reinforced potassium geopolymer composites, which had flexural strengths exceeding 50 MPa at 8 wt% abaca fibers. This new composite was shown to have good water and saltwater durability, decent sodium hydroxide and freeze cycle durability, and poor sulfuric acid durability. The composite was also tested for heat sensitivity, and showed a steady decrease in flexural strength as it was exposed to higher temperatures. The composite was unable to carry any load after being treated to 300°C. Weibull statistical analysis was used to better understand the range of flexural strengths within different sample groups. Finally, SEM analysis was employed to characterize fracture surfaces and mode of failure in the different sample sets.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Materials Science & Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2017

Author dc:creator

• Roper, Daniel Steven

Contributors dc:contributor

• Kriven, Waltraud M.

• Geopolymer
• Composite
• Biological
• Cork
• Abaca

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2017 Daniel S. Roper

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/97271

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/97271