Feasibility of using geopolymer solution in the conservation of architectural monuments

Abstract

the ordinary cement mortar. The authors present the argument for the expediency of using a Preservation and maintenance of architectural monuments have always been the number one task for civil engineers. In this context, the engineer encounters a “wagon load” of problems. On the one hand, there are strict requirements for the composition of materials used for restoration. On the other hand, it is the almost insurmountable challenge of selecting the right materials with the essential properties for the proper restoration of an architectural monument. Fixing of cracks and cavities is crucial for the durability of reinforced concrete and stone structures. These need to be treated scientifically to ensure usability.

 In this setting, the use of Epoxy resins has become common. While Epoxy resins perform well under certain circumstances, they have many disadvantages such as heat instability, high costs, high resource demand, and serious health and environmental hazards. Furthermore, Epoxy resins are proscribed in monument preservation. To overcome the potential disadvantages of Epoxy resins, Geopolymers offer a promising alternative. Geopolymers are an environmentally friendly and durable substitute with low viscosity, supported by high-temperature stability. Using inorganic additives, geopolymer can expand and create a preload during solidification; this is a salient favorable feature since any decrease in volume will lead to the creation of a new cavity or crack of a smaller size. According to previous studies [1], the implementation of this low-CO2 geopolymer cement in construction and civil engineering would reduce CO₂ emissions caused by the cement and concrete industry by 80%

This article presents the main advantages and disadvantages of the proposed geopolymer solution, in comparison to geopolymer solution in the reconstruction of architectural monuments.