Rheological Behavior of Fly-Ash-Based Geopolymers
SourceGeopolymers, a class of novel cementitious binders, have been gaining growing acceptance in commercial applications. One of the most important aspects for the commercialization of these products is their behavior in a plastic state. The workability of fresh geopolymer paste can be measured with several common tests, such as flow and slump; however, a more in-depth characterization of their rheology is essential to understand basic setting mechanisms. In this article, special consideration is given to the rheological behavior of geopolymer paste under the action of a surface tension-reducing agent (STRA). STRAs of two different types were utilized and their effect on compressive strength, viscosity, and flow evaluated. The degree of surface tension reduction for these agents was also investigated. Implications related to industrial applications of these materials were also discussed.