Metakaolin-based geopolymers for nuclear waste encapsulation

D. A. Geddes, X. Ke, S. A. Bernal, M. Hayes, J. L. Provis

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

12 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

The UK nuclear industry has a significant and challenging stockpile of nuclear wastes, and geopolymers produced from activation of the calcined clay metakaolin offer a valuable alternative to Portland cement-based systems. The characteristics of different formulations of metakaolin-based geopolymers, reacted with sodium and potassium silicate, are therefore of interest. As preliminary steps, the compressive strength and rheology of some metakaolin geopolymer grouts have been studied. This work showed that a potassium silicate-based geopolymer binder, with a sufficiently high water content can be produced to be highly workable. These grouts have a shear stress of approximately 80, Pa at a shear rate of 110, s−1 and can achieve compressive strengths of up to 40, MPa after 7 days of curing. This study is to be expanded in future and compared to the results produced from further analysis performed on the chemical structure of the geopolymer, as well as the overall physical characteristics achieved, to support the immobilisation, incorporation and retention of metal and oil based nuclear wastes.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCalcined Clays for Sustainable Concrete - Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Calcined Clays for Sustainable Concrete
EditorsF. Martirena, A. Favier, K. Scrivener
Place of PublicationDordrecht, The Netherlands
PublisherSpringer Netherlands
Pages183-188
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)9789402412062
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2018
Event2nd International Conference on Calcined Clays for Sustainable Concrete, 2017 - Havana, Cuba
Duration: 5 Dec 20177 Dec 2017

Publication series

NameRILEM Bookseries
Volume16

Conference

Conference2nd International Conference on Calcined Clays for Sustainable Concrete, 2017
Country/TerritoryCuba
CityHavana
Period5/12/177/12/17

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • Mechanics of Materials

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