Optimization of recycled concrete aggregate geopolymer bricks by Taguchi Method

Abstract

The experimental program was undertaken to investigate the performance of different geopolymer bricks (GB) made with different amounts of industrial waste materials by Taguchi method. Taguchi approach (with L₁₆ orthogonal array) was used to design the experimental plan to reduce the number of experiments as well as to analysis the results. Recycled concrete aggregates (RCA), dust marble powder (MP) and dust lime stone powder (LP) were considered as the main variables (control factors) to develop the sustainable geopolymer concrete designated for building bricks. Four responses which the density, mechanical properties (compressive and flexural strengths) at 28 days and the percentage of water absorption were conducted. The test results revealed that combining an eminently RAC, MP and LP can produce GB with 28 days compressive strength of about 36-58 MPa with ambient temperature. The RCA was the most influential factors on the performance of GB due to its performance contribution.

Furthermore, the GB containing RCA is suitable for environment friendly construction and is comparable to a normal GB made with natural aggregate