Material characteristics of zeolite cement mortar

Abstract

The cement industry consumes large amounts of energy and uses limestone as a main raw material. The associated CO2 emissions are a main target of efforts to combat global warming and other environmental problems. With the advent of cutting-edge technology and increased public awareness of global environmental issues, the cement industry is actively seeking ways to diversify resources.

This study was designed to assess the material properties of zeolite cement mortar that primarily consists of natural zeolite, which has recently drawn attention as an alternative cement material. We address strength properties and optimal mix proportions using an alkali activator (NaOH) instead of water (H2O) for preparing hardened zeolite mortar samples through alkali-activated reactions. The 7-day compressive strength of natural zeolite cement mortar was 43.5 MPa when optimal proportions of the alkali activator and curing temperature were applied. In the results of this study, zeolite cement has greater strength than existing normal Portland cement and has great potential to replace current construction materials.