The Effect of Adding Alumina to Diatomaceous Earth-Based Geopolymers

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
This study uses waste materials, specifically diatomaceous earth (DE) that is rich in aluminum and silica, as a sustainable source for aluminosilicate precursors in geopolymers to replace conventional cement in mortar applications. While the use of DE shows promising results, it lacks sufficient alumina content, thereby demanding the introduction of alumina powder. However, the effectiveness of this addition is limited, as unreacted alumina particles were observed in the X-ray diffraction and SEM analyses. This could potentially impact various geopolymer properties due to the incomplete achievement of the desired silicon/aluminum (Si/Al) ratio. Achieving the appropriate Si/Al balance remains crucial for geopolymers to realize their potential as environmentally friendly alternatives to Portland cement.
Funding Information
  • CIMO (UIDB/00690/2020, UIDP/00690/2020, LA/P/0007/2020, POCI-01-0247-FEDER-069583, COMPETE 2020)
  • SusTEC (UIDB/00690/2020, UIDP/00690/2020, LA/P/0007/2020, POCI-01-0247-FEDER-069583, COMPETE 2020)
  • BacchusTech—Integrated Approach for the Valorisation of Winemaking Residues (UIDB/00690/2020, UIDP/00690/2020, LA/P/0007/2020, POCI-01-0247-FEDER-069583, COMPETE 2020)
  • Competitiveness and Internationalization Operational Programme (UIDB/00690/2020, UIDP/00690/2020, LA/P/0007/2020, POCI-01-0247-FEDER-069583, COMPETE 2020)

This publication has 13 references indexed in Scilit: