ABSTRACT
The morphology of self-compacting geopolymer concrete (SCGPC) including spent garnet was investigated using various characterization techniques. Two SCGPC specimens with 0% (control) and 25% (optimum) spent garnet were selected to determine their microstructures after being exposed to acid for 6 months. As mentioned in the previous chapter, the SCGPC specimen with 25% spent garnet revealed the highest level of mechanical strength compared with the control throughout the curing period. The results obtained from the microstructure characterizations are discussed and analyzed in the upcoming sections. SCGPC specimens were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffusion (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) measurements. Furthermore, the dehydration (mass loss) and the decomposition of the basic hydration products were determined by means of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA).
