A Review on the Incorporation of Diatomaceous Earth as a Geopolymer-Based Concrete Building Resource

Abstract

The development of geopolymer building composites at a lower cost with a smaller carbon footprint may lessen the growing concerns about global warming brought on by emissions of a critical greenhouse gas (CO2) paired with the high production costs in the cement sector. Diatomaceous earth, commonly used as an admixture or partial replacement of cement owing to its most effective pozzolanic properties, has been investigated as a precursor in geopolymer concrete development. Several studies have been examined to develop a greater understanding of its characterization, inclusion status, and impacts on the performance aspects of concrete. The literature review showed that using diatomaceous earth is one of the effective ways to create sustainable, insulating, lightweight building materials while minimizing the harmful economic and environmental effects of industrial solid wastes. However, since most studies have focused on its integration as a partial cement substitute or a replacement for fine aggregate, further research on diatomaceous earth-based clinker-free concrete is required. A lack of research on geopolymer concrete’s reinforcement with either natural or synthetic fibers, or a combination of the two, was also discovered. This review also showed that there has been remarkably little effort made towards theoretical property correlation modeling for predicting concrete performance. It is anticipated that the detailed overview presented herein will guide potential researchers in defining their future paths in the study area.

Comprehensive Analysis of Geopolymer Materials: Properties, Environmental Impacts, and Applications

“…It is characterized by its abundant silica content derived from fossilized algae [24]. The reviewed studies suggest that incorporating diatomaceous earth can lead to the creation of eco-friendly, insulating, and lightweight construction materials, thereby reducing the detrimental environmental and economic impacts associated with industrial solid waste [25]. Additionally, the research by Kipsanai et al [26] delved into the properties of geopolymer concrete made with alkaline-activated diatomaceous earth and reinforced with sisal fibers.…”

The effect of diatomite dosage on physical, mechanical, and rheological creep properties of poplar wood/polypropylene composites

“…Among these inorganic fillers, diatomite stands out as a micro‐ and nano‐scale non‐metallic mineral, primarily composed of silica, which imparts stability to active components. Diatomite exhibits the desirable attributes of a rigid filler, possessing characteristics such as adsorption, dispersion, suspension, abrasion resistance, and excellent electrical insulation 17 . Consequently, diatomite can effectively augment the rigidity, toughness, and strength of the resulting product, among other desirable capabilities.…”

“…Diatomite exhibits the desirable attributes of a rigid filler, possessing characteristics such as adsorption, dispersion, suspension, abrasion resistance, and excellent electrical insulation. 17 Consequently, diatomite can effectively augment the rigidity, toughness, and strength of the resulting product, among other desirable capabilities. Therefore, diatomite is potentially a reinforcing material for PP.…”

Measurements of Breakdown and Buildup of Thixotropy in Cement Pastes Containing Diatomaceous Earth

“…According to United States Geology Surveys (USGS), using DE as cement additives has increased significantly from 14% in 2014 to 21% in 2015 and now it is the second largest DE consumption in US [11,12]. As a natural pozzolanic additive for concrete [13][14][15], it is believed that replacing Portland cement with DE to some levels can improve concrete properties, such as late age strength [16]. Because of its unique morphology, porous structure and high water absorption level, DE is excepted to influence properties of concrete especially its fresh properties, such as thixotropy.…”