Performance assessment of quaternary-blended geopolymers under different curing temperatures

In the realm of building materials, geopolymer technology offers the best possible solution to manage increasing waste production. This study investigates the impact of waste marble powder (WMP) on the quality and sustainable potential of quaternary-blended geopolymers cured at different temperatures. For this research, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), fly ash (FA), metakaolin (MK), and silica fume (SF) were used as binder materials, while WMP, quartz aggregate, and river aggregates were used as fine aggregate materials in varying proportions. The novelty of this study lies in examining the combined effects of WMP and curing temperatures on mechanical properties and sustainability. Additionally, the study provides comprehensive economic and ecological analyses, highlighting the potential for high-performance and sustainable construction materials. The results reveal that high-temperature curing offers better mechanical and durability performance due to accelerated geopolymerization. Moreover, the incorporation of WMP positively influences the mechanical properties but poses a detrimental impact on the acid attack resistance of geopolymers. The production cost (198 USD/m3) and embodied cabon dioxide (CO2) emissions (399 kgCO2/m3) of geopolymers prepared are comparable to the existing literature. Based on the results, 50 % incorporation of WMP as a fine aggregate material can prepare geopolymers with high performance and sustainable potential, which could pave the way for sustainable development in the construction industry.