Study on the relation between macro-mechanical properties and micro-structure of geopolymers with different activator modulus

The fly ash–based geopolymer (FABG) containing slag has distinct advantages in field applications. In this work, given that the activator modulus is a significant parameter affecting the properties of FABG, the influence mechanism of activator modulus (SiO 2 /Na 2 O from 1.1 to 1.5) on the macro-mechanical properties and micro-structure composition of FABG containing slag is explored. According to the experimental results, the early product of FABG containing slag is mainly C-A-S–H gel, and N-(C)-A-S–H gel with high cross-linking degree is formed at a later stage. Both C-A-S–H and N-A-S–H gels are distinguished in reaction products by using 29 Si NMR. The Si/Al ratio of N-A-S–H gel and C-A-S–H gel decreases with the increase of modulus, resulting in an increase of MCL in C-A-S–H. Appropriate activator modulus can effectively activate slag and fly ash to yield more gels and form a more uniform and dense micro-structure, resulting in a lower threshold pore size and macroporosity, and an associated increase of the material strength. Meanwhile, the gel amount has a positive effect on the strength development in the FABG.