The Influence of Slag/Fly Ash Ratio and Sodium Silicate Modulus on the Properties of 1-3-2 Alkali-Based Piezoelectric Composite

Abstract

In this paper, a comprehensive experimental investigation on the effect of the slag-to-fly ash ratio (hereafter referred to as SL/FA) and sodium silicate modulus on the properties of a 1-3-2 piezoelectric composite was carried out. The influence of the SL/FA ratio on various properties was initially investigated. Compared with other specimens, specimens with SL/FA = 40%:60% had the highest electromechanical coupling coefficient (Kt = 77.67%, Kp = 71%). Therefore, the specimen with SL/FA = 40%:60% was chosen to explore the effect of the sodium silicate modulus. Additionally, the specimen with SL/FA = 40%:60% and a sodium silicate modulus of 1.3 had the best electromechanical conversion efficiency with Kt = 75.68% and Kp = 75.95%. The 1-3-2 alkali-based piezoelectric composite proved to have the characteristics of a low cost, optimal piezoelectric and mechanical properties, higher tunability, and better compatibility with concrete. It is a potential alternative to cement-based piezoelectric composites and may be widely utilized to monitor the health of concrete structures.

Durability Improvement of Pumice Lightweight Aggregate Concrete by Incorporating Modified Rubber Powder with Sodium Silicate

“…SS is widely used as an alkaline activator in building materials. Cai found that adding SS increased the strength and compactness of Portland cement-based materials while reducing the pore size [19]. SS itself has the advantages of high viscosity and strength and can bond fly ash, cement, and other material particles, which will improve the strength and durability of concrete [20].…”

Real Time Assessment of Smart Concrete Inspection with Piezoelectric Sensors

“…Embedding sensors, however, poses additional considerations to the existing challenges. For example, sensor insertion may cause larger interlayer voids [25], and studies suggest that sensor performance can be affected by the host environment [46], hence PZT coating performance should also be evaluated. Nonetheless, inserting a smart sensor presents an opportunity to incorporate non-destructive, real-time, ad-hoc, and continuous monitoring strategies for SHM.…”