Degradation mechanisms of low-calcium fly ash-based geopolymer mortar in simulated aggressive sewer conditions

Abstract

Alkali-activated geopolymers are increasingly studied as alternatives to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) concrete for use in challenging service environments. Low-calcium geopolymers have been advocated to mitigate Microbial-Induced Concrete Corrosion (MICC) in sewer pipes; however, their broader acceptance as a repair material for sewer rehabilitation remains to be established. This study evaluated the degradation mechanism of low-calcium fly ash-based geopolymer (FAGP) repair mortar under laboratory-simulated sewer conditions by exposing it to varying concentrations of sulphuric acid (pH 0.5, 1, and 4) for extended durations. The corrosion of the mortar samples was assessed based on visual changes, mass loss, residual mechanical strength, pore evolution, and ion transport over three exposure durations. Comparative analysis with OPC counterparts served as a benchmark. The degradation of FAGP and OPC due to acid exposure appears to escalate with both acid concentration and exposure. However, FAGP displayed superior performance by maintaining their shape and retaining approximately 30% of mechanical strength even after 3000 h of exposure under highly aggressive sewer conditions at pH 0.5. In contrast, OPC fails to endure acid exposure beyond 2000 h. The loss of matrix integrity primarily stems from ion leaching, supported by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry analysis, which revealed the creation of intrinsic pores facilitating the ingress of sulphate ions into the matrix. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy patterns indicate no significant phase alterations, confirming this phenomenon. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that FAGP mortar is more resilient and durable in mild to aggressive sewer conditions than OPC.