The effect of marble powder on physico‐mechanical and microstructural properties of kaolin‐based geopolymer pastes

Abstract As an alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), alkali‐activated materials (AAMs) have more recently been studied and found certain suitability in reducing ecological footprint of OPC binding systems. Nonetheless, due recent concerns over the availability precursors used AAMs (such as reduction coal fly ash availability), this study utilized marble powder various quantities replace naturally available kaolin precursor. This composite use natural has entertained assimilate production carbon zero AAMs. To evaluate physico‐mechanical microstructural characteristics materials, 48 mixes with different sodium (Na) concentrations, curing temperatures, content used. The results show that rising temperature is effective than other variables, such Na on performance tested geopolymers. In regard, it a very high can adverse effect properties, potentially altered Na/Si, Na/Al ratio mixes. Furthermore, inclusion be decreasing overall porosity up ~31% enhancing properties specimens cured at 20 80°C. when containing are exposed higher temperatures (above 80°C) presence adversely affects properties. It concluded phenomenon caused by dehydration chemically bound water result further confirmed tests.