Dielectric properties for characterization of fly ash-based geopolymer binders

In this study, a method for determining the setting time and the porosity of fly ash-based geopolymer binders (FAGPBs) has been established. This method permits a real-time monitoring of the geopolymerisation and hardening progressions. A parallel plate capacitor cell technique was used to determine the dielectric constant εr' and dielectric loss factor εr'' of fresh and hardened mixes. Equivalent model-circuits of the measurement system were developed, and the accuracy of the system was verified. The dielectric properties were monitored at different ages until 56 days over a frequency range of 0.1–60 MHz. The alkaline solution to fly ash ratio, sodium silicate to alkaline solution ratio, and sodium hydroxide solution molarity were varied to study their effects on the dielectric properties. It was found that dielectric properties can provide valuable information when measured in the frequency range of 10–25 MHz. In this range, the dielectric values responded well to the variations with age and with mix properties. The relationships between the dielectric properties and the different physical states and constituent materials of FAGPBs could be used for quality control applications. The εr' and εr'' time plots were effectively utilized to determine the setting time and the rate of geopolymerisation of FAGPBs. Measurements showed a strong correlation between εr' and porosity; the εr' values decreased 2.3-fold over a porosity range of 3–15%. The proposed regression models can be further used in determining the porosity of FAGPBs at a high accuracy level.