Thermal performance of mortars/concretes containing analcime

Abstract

The aim of this study is to achieve a synergy with positive properties of zeolites such as thermal performance and pozzolanic admixture. For this aim, in the study, analcime and clinoptilolite, the two different natural zeolite minerals, were used as pozzolanic replacement material for blended cements. The replacement ratios with Portland cement of zeolites were 0, 10, 30 and 50%. The clinoptilolite which is widely used in the market was used in comparison with zeolite for the determination of similar properties for analcime. Mortars/concretes containing analcime and clinoptilolite blended cements were produced. In the study, (1) physical, chemical, mechanical, mineralogical, petrographic, thermal properties and pozzolanic activities for analcime and clinoptilolite, (2) conformity tests of blended cements, and (3) strength and the thermal performance for mortars/concretes containing blended cements were determined. The test results have been compared among themselves and with each other. According to the test results, without compromising in terms of strengths of mortars/concretes due to pozzolanic activity, it has been determined that thermal performance of the mortars/concretes containing analcime and clinoptilolite blended cements could be improved. Also, it has been concluded that the analcime has showed similar properties to clinoptilolite in terms of its thermal performance and strength. In some cases, due to these similar properties, analcime may be an alternative pozzolanic additive to clinoptilolite which is commonly used.