Experimental studies on behavior of one-part geopolymer composite slabs subjected to blast loading

Over the past two decades, geopolymer has emerged as a noteworthy alternative to traditional cementitious materials in construction, offering comparable performance with reduced carbon dioxide emissions. The recent development of one-part geopolymer composites, which transform the alkaline activating solution into a solid powder form, has significantly enhanced the scalability and applicability of geopolymer in construction contexts. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of one-part geopolymer composite slabs when subjected to blast loading. Four slab specimens were constructed using the one-part geopolymer composite. Two of these specimens were reinforced with steel wire mesh, while the other two used PVA fibers for reinforcement. These slabs were tested under various blast loading induced by a shock tube. Employing three-dimensional digital image correlation techniques, the dynamic responses and damage mechanisms exhibited by these slabs were analyzed and discussed. The experimental results reveal that the fiber-reinforced geopolymer composite (FRGC) slabs demonstrate superior blast resistance compared to those reinforced with steel wire mesh. In particular, the one-part geopolymer matrix combined with PVA fibers exhibited a synergistic effect, indicating an enhanced capacity for energy dissipation. The findings suggest that one-part geopolymer concrete reinforced with PVA fibers holds significant potential for applications in the field of protective engineering, marking a step forward in the development of sustainable and resilient construction materials.