Evidence of a Fractal Percolating Network During Geopolymerization

• DOI: 10.1111/jace.13480
• Publication Date: 2015-02-06T09:25:20Z
• Authors: Julien Rouyer; Arnaud Poulesquen
• Keywords: Gel point; Metakaolin; Percolation (cognitive psychology)

This study focuses on the transition from paste state to solid which occurs during hardening of metakaolin‐based Na‐geopolymers. The occurrence primary interactions and structural properties were investigated using classical oscillatory rheology ( OR ) methods. A time‐frequency‐resolved TF 2R) method was used in order obtain more detailed information about percolation aggregation mechanisms. results obtained show following process: (i) Elastic behavior predominates initially over viscous at low frequency. (ii) percolating process then takes place when viscoelastic parameters become parallel than two frequency decades. At gel point, a mass‐fractal dimension approximately 2 determined. (iii) During formation porous network, elastic one due polycondensation reactions. (iv) Lastly, is reached, where modulus shows plateau decreases. These macroscopic mechanical are compared small angle x‐ray scattering technique. Scattering experiments complete agreement with rheological measurements showed presence aggregated oligomers mass fractal equal 2.1 increasing up surface reflecting mesoporous network.