Investigation of the Relationship Between Ferrochrome Ash Addition and Chemical Binders in Geopolymer Concrete

Abstract Portland Cement, widely used in construction, has high energy consumption and CO2 emissions during production. Seeking eco-friendly alternatives, geopolymers offer high strength, heat resistance, eco-friendliness, and acid durability. This study used waste ferrochrome ash from Elazıg Eti Krom Factory as a pozzolan, activating it with NaOH and SiO2Na2O. It aimed to assess ferrochrome ash's use in geopolymer concrete for reduced CO2 emissions and waste valorization. Geopolymer concrete blended ferrochrome ash into blast furnace slag and silica fume-based mixes, investigating hardened properties. Experiments with determined parameters—curing conditions, activator content, and SS/SH ratio—maintained consistently in geopolymer concrete. Extensive analysis of mechanical properties determined the optimal activator proportions as a SS/SH ratio of 3 with a NaOH molarity of 14. The top-performing mixture achieved an average compressive strength of 29.51 MPa following heat curing, underscoring the potential of ferrochrome ash as an effective additive in geopolymers, particularly at 60°C curing temperatures.