Optimization of a one-part geopolymerization method for lab-scale, using waste glass wool as a precursor

Abstract: Geopolymers are amorphous inorganic polymeric structures. They are used as binding agents and can be compared to cementitious materials such as ordinary Portland cement. This thesis aims to produce geopolymers from waste glass wool. Today glass wool is found in isolation, both thermal and sound insulation, and it is not being recycled. Most of the glass wool waste ends in landfills. Studies have been conducted to ensure the viability of using glass wool as the main component in geopolymers. In this project, 80% of the binder is waste glass wool. The samples are produced using the one-part approach to the geopolymer reaction, this method makes for safer handling than the two-part approach. The samples are analysed using XRD, TGA, microscopy and compressive strength testing. The curing temperature influences the compressive strength with increasing compressive strength with temperature up to 60°C. The water to binder ratio contributes a lot to the strength of the geopolymer, a higher water to binder ratio gives a lower compressive strength. The amount of sodium silicate increases the compressive strength, the increase is found up to 21% of sodium silicate. Above 21% the strength increase subsides. The TGA shows that 10% of the weight of the sample after 28 days of drying in ambient temperature and humidity is water. It also shows changes in weight due to the phenolic binder used to coat the glass fibres. The highest compressive strength for geopolymers in this report is 55 MPa. This study shows that to optimize the production, the capability of the equipment and the application of the geopolymer needs to be taken into consideration.