For over a year now, the CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre (CSIR-SERC), Chennai, has developed geopolymer concrete (GPC) building block technology. “This technology will bring down the use of water necessary for curing and also time required for curing. It is a green alternative to cement since in the production of cement,” said Mr P.S. Ambily, senior scientist, Advanced Materials Laboratory, SERC. “For the production of each kilo of cement, 0.8 kilo of CO2 is released into the atmosphere. Materials like flyash and slag are used in GPC as aggregate,” explained Mr. Ambily, whose team has developed the technology. Recently, during the institution’s foundation day, the technology was transferred to Kiran Global Geocements Ltd, a private company, which is expected to begin commercial production shortly. “Flyash obtained from thermal power stations that use coal, granulated slag from blast furnace (from steel plants) and geoactivator (which is a bonding agent) are the major materials that will go into making the blocks. Since alkaline materials are used, it will increase longevity. It will also bring down costs by at least 10%,” said Mr S. Singaravelu, managing director of the company. Mr Santhosh Kapuria, Director, CISR- SERC said that GPC blocks can be extensively used in buildings, footpaths, parking lots and even in landscaping.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/
Leave Your Comment