Experimental Investigation on the Performance of Fly Ash-Based Rubberized Geopolymer Concrete under Elevated Temperature Curing

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2026 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 13 Issue 2

Year of Publication : 2026

Authors : Manjula Karmakar, Hasim Ali Khan, T. Senthil Vadivel, Sayandip Ganguly

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I2P110

How to Cite?

Manjula Karmakar, Hasim Ali Khan, T. Senthil Vadivel, Sayandip Ganguly, "Experimental Investigation on the Performance of Fly Ash-Based Rubberized Geopolymer Concrete under Elevated Temperature Curing," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13,  no. 2, pp. 132-151, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I2P110

Abstract:

Geopolymer concrete has emerged as a promising sustainable alternative to conventional concrete, primarily due to its potential to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts. In addition, several industrial by-products, if not properly managed, pose serious environmental concerns. Among these, waste rubber represents a critical challenge, as its incineration releases toxic compounds detrimental to both human health and the ecosystem. Thus, utilizing such waste materials as partial replacements for natural aggregates in geopolymer concrete may seem to be beneficial in conserving natural resources as well as in facilitating effective waste management. As synthesis of geopolymer binders typically involves elevated-temperature curing, the thermal performance of rubberized geopolymer concrete necessitates comprehensive evaluation. Although numerous studies have investigated the mechanical and durability characteristics of geopolymer concrete, research addressing its behavior under high-temperature conditions remains relatively limited. In the present study, the mechanical property and durability performance of rubberized geopolymer concrete are analyzed using two alkaline activator concentrations—14M and 16M NaOH—each cured at 100 °C with varying percentages of CR. The effect of the Alkaline Ratio (Na₂SiO₃/NaOH) is also examined by increasing the ratio from 1% to 2.5% in intervals of 0.5%. The experimental findings identified an optimal mix comprising 6% Crumb Rubber (CR) content with a 16M NaOH solution and a Na₂SiO₃/NaOH ratio of 2.5. As an extension of this work, real-scale experiments on geopolymer concrete under high temperatures need to be performed in the future to substantiate its practical applicability as a replacement for conventional concrete in civil engineering construction.

Keywords:

Geopolymer Concrete, Fly Ash, Crumb Rubber, Elevated Temperature Curing, Sustainable Construction.

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