Performance evaluation of geopolymer concrete using E-waste and M-sand

This study has been conducted to diminish the carbon footprint of concrete and to assess the performance of geopolymer concrete by completely replacing river sand with Manufactured sand (M-Sand) and Electronic Waste (E-waste). Fly ash and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) are used in various combinations as a cementitious material in geopolymer concrete. The characteristic strength of geopolymer concrete is obtained by completely replacing fine aggregate with E-waste and M-sand with different percentages. An optimum percentage replacement is arrived at by studying the physical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics. The sizes of the E-waste particles used in this research are between 0.3mm and 0.15 mm and it has a deep colour with a specific gravity of 2.68. Maximum compressive strength of 35.8 N/mm2 on 28 days is achieved for the optimal mix proportion of 80% fly ash, 20% GGBFS, 80% M-sand, and 20% E-waste as fine aggregate. Maximum flexural strength obtained is 6.54 N/mm2 for mix proportion 1 and split tensile strength is 4.75 N/mm2 resulted in mix proportion 2. The use of fly ash, E-waste, and M-sand in geopolymer concrete reduce the environmental pollution and depletion of natural river sand. The results of this experimental study very well match with Indian standards of concrete.