Microstructure of Inorganic Polymeric Binder Based on Natural Pozzolan

In this paper, the microstructures of different formulations of natural pozzolan based inorganic polymeric binders made with varying oxide compositions and alkalis has been investigated and the effect of changes in chemical composition and curing conditions on microstructure has been studied. Laboratory technique of Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) was used to study the microstructure and to determine the composition of the gel matrix. Investigations done by scanning electron microscopy confirm the presence of an amorphous matrix in which particles of various shapes and sizes are embedded. Obtained results showed that the quantity of gel matrix and extent of partial dissolution of an aluminosilicate could be significantly affected by curing procedure so that hydrothermal treatment could effectively improve the microstructure of the specimens by preventing microcracks formation and hence resulted in the formation of a quite sound and more uniform microstructure and also resulted in the formation of more alkali aluminosilicate gel from the starting natural pozzolan.

Keywords:

Inorganic polymer , Natural Pozzolan , Chemical Composition , Curing condition