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To achieve sustainability in the manufacturing of concrete, numerous researchers have developed an interest in cutting-edge geopolymer technology and geopolymer composite production. The viability of employing diatomaceous earth from Nakuru, Kenya, reinforced with sisal fiber as a source for geopolymer concrete was evaluated in an effort to create a sustainable geopolymer concrete with acceptable performance attributes. Standard procedures were used to conduct the chemical and physical analysis of diatomaceous earth. The mechanical and physical characteristics of the sodium hydroxide/sodium silicate (NaOH/Na2SiO3) alkaline activated diatomite-based concrete specimens were evaluated using the standard test methods. According to the diatomaceous earth’s chemical analysis, silica (SiO2) made up 88.12 % of the material; Aluminium oxide (Al2O3) was 4.25 % while calcium oxide (CaO) was 4.26 %. Other oxides such as MgO, K2O, TiO2, MnO, Fe2O3, and P205 were also present in trace amounts. The study of particle size revealed that the diatomaceous earth from Nakuru, Kenya, had a fine composition and an average particle size of less than 50.4 µm. The maximum property values for compressive strength, density and water absorption attained by the diatomite-based specimens were, 34.05 MPa, 1.38 g/cm3 and 20.42 % respectively. The diatomaceous earth’s chemical composition suggests that it is comparable to Class F pozzolan. The mechanical, physical and durability performance falls within the acceptable limits as provided in the reviewed literature. As a result of this research, it is possible to successfully use Kenyan diatomite reinforced with sisal fibers as a silica source in geopolymer formulations, opening up new possibilities for utilizing and recycling this resource of natural and industrial waste. |
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