Optimization of Mix Formulation and Compressive Strength Evaluation of Casted and 3D Printed Geopolymer Specimens
摘要
The 3D printing3D printing technology has revolutionized manufacturing by enabling the creation of complex, intricate designs, significantly impacting the construction industry by reducing time and costs. Recent research has shifted towards eco-friendly alternatives, such as GeopolymerGeopolymers compositesComposite, which emit 80–90% less carbon and consume 60% less energy compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). This study explores the design and manufacturing of printable GeopolymerGeopolymers compositesComposite using Construction and Demolition Wastes (CDW) like waste brick and waste ceramic tile powders. Alkali solutions made from commercial aqueous sodium silicate and 8 M potassium hydroxide served as activators. Both 3D printed and conventionally cast specimens were tested for compressive strengthCompressive strength. The study aims to identify the optimal mix design for 3D printing3D printing GeopolymerGeopolymers compositesComposite by evaluating rheologyRheology, fresh properties, and strength, as well as determining the necessary pumping rate and printing speed for effective 3D printing. The findings revealed that the viscosity of 0.8–1 Pa s, yield stress of 105–260 Pa, printing speed of 60 mm/s, and stand-off distance of 22 mm are optimal parameters for both ceramic tile-based and brick-based printable geopolymerGeopolymers slurry. The 3D printed specimens exhibited compressive strengthCompressive strength approximating the compressive strengthCompressive strength levels of traditional mould cast specimens with corresponding identical mixture parameters.