Impact of Inter-grinding on the Reaction Kinetics and Physical Properties of One-Part Alkali-Activated Metakaolin

Developing alkali-activated materials (AAM) is one of the pathways to decarbonize cement manufacturing that currently contributes 5-8% of global anthropogenic carbon emissions [1]. However, extensive deployment of AAMs in industry has yet to be realized, part of which is due to the reluctance to work with “two-part” activation that requires handling large amounts of concentrated caustic solutions [2]. Here, a “one-part” AAM has been developed using calcined kaolin clay and a solid sodium silicate source. Inter-grinding of the dry mixture is found to increase the kinetics of alkali-activation and improve rheological properties of the paste. The underlying physicochemical properties responsible for these improvements have been explored by analysis of particle size distribution, surface properties, nanostructure, and specific surface area.