Compressive strength optimization of geopolymer concrete utilizing ternary binder combinations

Abstract This research explores the mechanical development and microstructural optimizations of sustainable geopolymer concrete by investigating ternary binder combinations. Industrial byproducts including fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) were utilized as partial replacements for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) to develop eco-friendly concrete matrices. Experiments systematically evaluated various binder ratios, alkaline concentrations, and curing regimes to determine their precise effects on compressive strength profiles. The empirical results demonstrate that a 4 M sodium hydroxide alkaline solution serves as the optimal activation threshold, with the OPC20FA20SF60 mix achieving the peak compressive strength of 15.20 MPa. Ultimately, the study confirms that ternary waste-based binders, combined with optimized curing parameters, offer a highly viable, structurally sound, and ecologically sustainable alternative for modern infrastructure construction practices.