# Preparation and characterization of self-cured geopolymer binder using metakaolin precursor

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a self-curing geopolymer binder that achieves high strength at room temperature, potentially replacing traditional cement.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel self-curing geopolymer system using OPC and process modifications, eliminating the need for external heat or alkaline liquids.

## Key findings

- Adding OPC enhances early strength and mechanical properties of geopolymers.
- Latent heat from OPC and activators provides internal heat comparable to external curing.
- Strength values of up to 48 MPa were achieved with 40% replacement after 28 days.

## Abstract

This study presents an advancement in “Self-cured geopolymer” technology, aiming to enable ambient-temperature curing. The experimental work systematically investigated two primary strategies: the incorporation of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) as an additive and the modification of manufacturing processes. The results demonstrate that the supplementary calcium from OPC enhances the geopolymer’s curing regime, yielding superior early-age strength and mechanical properties. Notably, the latent heat released from the reactions of high-energy compounds (e.g., OPC and activators) was found to be a significant internal heat source, functionally comparable to external heat curing. The synergy of these approaches establishes a feasible pathway for developing “Self-cured geopolymer cement” that achieves substantial mechanical strength under ambient conditions. The developed Self-cured geopolymer techniques, there are potentials that could increase the commercial viability of geopolymers as a construction material in construction industry by eliminating heating process and preparation of alkaline liquids as well as it could make a solid contribution to the field of low-carbon binder development. Potential application of Geopolymer cement powder as conventional OPC by just adding water. The results of the current work showed that the strength values reached abobit 45 MPa for 20% replacement (optimum dose) after 28 days of curing, while for one-part geopolymer mix reached to 48 MPa for 40% replacement (optimum dose) after 28 days curing,