Performance of Geopolymer Concrete using Varying Sizes of Steel Fibres

Background/Objectives: The main objective of the study is focused in producing geopolymer concrete using Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS) with the addition of sodium hydroxide solution. The study also comprises to gain better strength concrete by addition of different sizes of steel fibres (1%). Methods/Statistical analysis: In this study, total of six mixes were prepared using alkali activator solution of 8 molarity, different sizes of steel fibres (30 mm and 60 mm) and their combinations were tested to get better mechanical properties. All the specimens were oven cured and tested on 1st, 7th and 28th day. Various tests such as compressive strength, flexural strength and young’s modulus of concrete were analysed in this study. Findings: Geopolymer concrete specimen has obtained a maximum compressive strength of 41.5 MPa and flexural strength of 7.5 MPa for M30 mix ratio. The addition of steel fibre showed a better improvement when compared to the control mix (plain GPC) and all mixes have achieved the desirable strength. Testing results have also indicated that the addition of shorter steel fibre showed better strength improvement with respect to the reference concrete than the longer steel fibre. Applications: It can be used in various applications such as machine foundations, industrial floorings and road pavements.