Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
4th International Civil Engineering & Architecture Conference, Trabzon, Türkiye, 17 - 19 Mayıs 2025, ss.1-7, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
Cement production processes are characterized by high energy consumption and substantial carbon emissions, making them a significant concern for environmental sustainability. Adopting sustainability-focused approaches within the construction industry plays a crucial role in mitigating these adverse impacts. In this context, geopolymer concretes (GPC) emerge as a promising, eco-friendly alternative to conventional cement-based concretes. GPCs contribute to both waste management and natural resource conservation by using industrial waste as a binder and replacing natural aggregates with recycled concrete aggregates (RCA). Aggregates, which account for approximately 70% of concrete, significantly contribute to the rapid depletion of natural resources during production. Recycling concrete waste provides an effective solution to reduce construction-related waste and minimize environmental impacts. However, residual mortar adhered to the surface of RCAs often compromises the mechanical strength and long-term performance of the concrete. To address these issues, various treatment methods have been developed to improve RCA properties. Techniques such as carbonation, acid treatment, mortar residue removal, and impregnation with slurries or solutions are aimed at enhancing the physical and mechanical characteristics of RCAs. In this study, RCAs were treated with cementitious pozzolanic slurries to fill voids and repair structural deficiencies, resulting in improved permeability and mechanical performance. These enhanced RCAs were subsequently used to produce geopolymer concretes based on ground granulated blast furnace slag. The mechanical and durability properties of the resulting concretes were comprehensively evaluated through tests such as compressive strength measurements, ultrasonic pulse velocity assessments, Schmidt hammer readings, and electrical resistivity evaluations. The results of this study highlight significant improvements in the performance of geopolymer concretes and contribute to the advancement of sustainable building materials. Additionally, the research underscores the potential for efficiently reusing construction waste, aligning with global efforts to promote environmentally friendly construction practices and resource efficiency.