Effect of Silica Fume on the Volume Expansion of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer Considering the Silicon-to-Aluminum Molar Ratio

Abstract This paper investigates the effect of silica fume on mechanical properties metakaolin-based geopolymers with different silicon-to-aluminum molar (S/A) ratios. Geopolymer has been extensively studied as an alternative to traditional cementitious material because its low CO 2 emissions. Previous studies revealed that application can improve compressive strength geopolymer, however, optimum dosages are different. To examine reason for fume, this study prepares geopolymer specimens which variables S/A ratio and dosage, conducts initial setting time tests. whether degradation is caused by expansion due added in volume dynamic modulus also measured. The results show a part dissolves changes remains matrix. These combined effects result irregular trend, and, thus, dosage vary depending ratio. Furthermore, observed, no sign damage found.