Resilient and green structural potential of steel fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete.

This study investigates the environmental sustainability and long-term durability of structural grade geopolymer concrete, comparing it with conventional cement concrete of similar strength grades. A comprehensive experimental investigation was conducted, optimising geopolymer concrete mix design by varying molar concentrations and incorporating fibers. Mixes incorporating 1% fibers were prepared and tested at 8, 10, 12, and 14 molarities, with a constant sodium hydroxide to sodium silicate ratio of 2.5, to evaluate performance enhancement. Results indicate that the addition of fibers and increasing molarity decreased slump values by up to 41%, reflecting reduced workability. However, compressive strength increased by 11%, showcasing enhanced mechanical properties. Geopolymer concrete also exhibited excellent resistance to long-term durability challenges when exposed to acidic and alkaline environments. Although the cost of geopolymer concrete with 14 M concentration at a laboratory scale is higher than ordinary Portland cement concrete, primarily due to the transportation of materials in small quantities, its environmental benefits are notable. The embodied energy and carbon emissions of geopolymer concrete were found to be 47.84% and 57.62% lower, respectively, compared to Portland cement concrete.