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Location
Lexington, KY
Event Website
https://worldofcoalash.org
Start Date
6-5-2026 8:30 AM
End Date
6-5-2026 9:00 AM
Description
Geopolymers have long been presented as an alternative to conventional concretes and cement-based binders, yet their practical use remains limited for various reasons. This paper examines both the material properties of such mixtures and their potential for broader application.
The study evaluated geopolymers produced from different types of fly ash, including typical siliceous ashes and ash with elevated CaO content. The influence of mixture components, such as solids content, activator type, and sample preparation and curing methods, on technological properties was investigated. Research covered fresh mixtures—rheological behavior and setting time—as well as hardened samples using mechanical testing, XRD, and SEM. The results enabled identification of relationships between fly ash characteristics, the degree of geopolymerization, microstructure, and performance parameters.
The analysis focused on assessing the feasibility of applying these materials in construction and mining technologies. Particular attention was given to their potential as alternatives to cement-based materials within the context of low-emission requirements. Technological, durability, economic aspects and industrial challenges were considered. Potential barriers to wider adoption were also highlighted.
The findings indicate that appropriate selection of fly ash and process parameters allows the production of materials suitable for selected engineering applications while reducing environmental impact, though this requires meeting several conditions.
Document Type
Presentation
Archival?
Archival
Included in
Energy Systems Commons, Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment Commons, Environmental Monitoring Commons, Mining Engineering Commons, Oil, Gas, and Energy Commons, Structural Materials Commons, Sustainability Commons
Geopolymers for Construction and Mining: Material Characterization and Application Prospects
Lexington, KY
Geopolymers have long been presented as an alternative to conventional concretes and cement-based binders, yet their practical use remains limited for various reasons. This paper examines both the material properties of such mixtures and their potential for broader application.
The study evaluated geopolymers produced from different types of fly ash, including typical siliceous ashes and ash with elevated CaO content. The influence of mixture components, such as solids content, activator type, and sample preparation and curing methods, on technological properties was investigated. Research covered fresh mixtures—rheological behavior and setting time—as well as hardened samples using mechanical testing, XRD, and SEM. The results enabled identification of relationships between fly ash characteristics, the degree of geopolymerization, microstructure, and performance parameters.
The analysis focused on assessing the feasibility of applying these materials in construction and mining technologies. Particular attention was given to their potential as alternatives to cement-based materials within the context of low-emission requirements. Technological, durability, economic aspects and industrial challenges were considered. Potential barriers to wider adoption were also highlighted.
The findings indicate that appropriate selection of fly ash and process parameters allows the production of materials suitable for selected engineering applications while reducing environmental impact, though this requires meeting several conditions.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/woca/woca2026/day2/61
