Geopolymer matrix for fibre reinforced composites aimed at strengthening masonry structures. (15th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tamburini, Sergio; Natali, Marco; Garbin, Enrico; Panizza, Matteo; Favaro, Monica; Valluzzi, Maria Rosa
• Is Part Of: Construction & building materials. Volume 141(2017)
• Page Start: 542
• Page End: 552
• Publication Date: 2017-06-15
• Subjects: Geopolymers -- Grout -- Matrix -- Composite materials -- Fibre reinforced materials -- Strengthening -- Masonry structures -- Experimental testing -- Fibre reinforced geopolymers; Building materials -- Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2017.03.017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0618

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: A stable, highly adhesive metakaolin/slag geopolymer grout was developed and extensively characterized. A geopolymer grout was used to bond reinforcing fibre nets and fabrics to clay bricks giving excellent adhesion. Four type of fibres commonly used in FRP and FRCM were bonded to clay bricks and tested by pull-off. Abstract: The paper presents the assessment of a metakaolin-slag-sodium-silicate GeoPolymer (GP) grout as a matrix for bonding four bidirectional meshes made of basalt, glass, carbon fibres and two unidirectional ultra-high tensile strength steel fabrics to soft mud and strong extruded clay bricks for strengthening purposes. A detailed chemical/physical characterization of the geopolymer is given, evidencing the completion of the geopolymerization reaction and the good stability of the geopolymer to leaching, freeze-thaw cycles and high temperature treatments as well as its adequate mechanical properties. Pull-off tests proved the excellent adhesion strength of the geopolymer grout, also embedding meshes and fabric, to both types of clay bricks.