Dynamic splitting-tensile testing of highly fluidised geopolymer concrete

Slag and fly ash were used in the fabrication of geopolymer concrete (GC). NaOH and Na₂CO₃ were used for slag and fly ash activation, and then highly fluidised C30 GC was prepared. Dynamic splitting-tensile tests were conducted using the ∅100 mm split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus improved by the pulse shaper technique. The dynamic splitting-tensile mechanical properties of GC, including strength, deformation and energy dissipation, were then studied. In addition, the mechanism of the dynamic properties of the GC was analysed. The results indicate that dynamic splitting-tensile mechanical properties of GC exhibit a strong strain rate dependency. Strength and deformation increase approximately linearly with the logarithm of the average strain rate and, from an energy perspective, the correlation between energy dissipation and average incident pulse energy rate is obvious, the equation following a binomial curve; for GC, the strain rate sensitivity threshold is 5·027 s⁻¹. This research on dynamic splitting-tensile testing thus adds to a comprehensive understanding of the mechanical characteristics system of GC.