Strength and Durability Assessment of Geopolymer Concrete Incorporating Industrial Waste

The construction industry is one of the major contributors to global carbon dioxide emissions due to the extensive production and consumption of conventional Portland cement. In response to growing environmental concerns, geopolymer concrete has emerged as a sustainable alternative that utilizes industrial waste materials as supplementary or primary binders. This study focuses on the strength and durability assessment of geopolymer concrete incorporating industrial waste materials, such as fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), silica fume, and other aluminosilicate-rich industrial by-products. The primary objective is to evaluate the mechanical performance, durability characteristics, and environmental benefits of geopolymer concrete under different mix proportions and curing conditions. The investigation considers important parameters, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, water absorption, sorptivity, permeability, resistance to sulphate and acid attacks, and resistance to chloride penetration. The influence of alkaline activators, including sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate, along with curing temperature, curing duration, and industrial waste replacement ratios, is also examined. The study highlights the role of geopolymerization in forming a dense three-dimensional aluminosilicate network that enhances the microstructural properties and long-term performance of concrete. Comparative assessment with conventional cement concrete indicates the potential of geopolymer concrete to achieve competitive or improved mechanical strength and durability while reducing cement consumption and industrial waste disposal problems. Furthermore, the utilization of industrial by-products supports resource conservation, waste valorization, and sustainable construction practices. The findings emphasize that geopolymer concrete can serve as an effective, durable, and environmentally responsible construction material, provided that its mix design, activator concentration, and curing conditions are appropriately optimized. This research contributes to the development of sustainable infrastructure materials and promotes the practical application of industrial waste-based geopolymer concrete in modern construction.