Effect of High Temperature on the Properties of Alkaline Activated Geopolymer Concrete

ABSTRACT As fire hazards and heat exposure increase in urban settings, it is critical to understand the behavior of construction materials at high temperatures. Alkaline Activated Geo‐Polymer Concrete (AAGPC), which is created from industrial by‐products and is deemed environmentally beneficial, requires further investigation to determine its heat resistance. This study investigates the thermal performance of AAGPC produced from Fly‐ash (FLY) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), activated with sodium silicate (Na 2 SiO 3 ) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). To test its strength after heat exposure, concrete samples were heated to temperatures ranging from 100°C to 800°C, and their remaining residual compressive strength was determined. The AAGPC mix labelled Mix 1 demonstrated the lowest residual compressive strength, while the Mix 6 demonstrated the highest residual compressive strength. The results also revealed that the residual compressive strength of GPC increased up to 300°C. However, after 400°C, the strength began to decline, most likely due to the production of micro cracks. This study focuses on the potential of GPC to improve fire resistance in the building industry.