Citation :

Suparjo, Yuli Panca Asmara, Firda Herlina, "Optimization of Compressive Strength of Fly Ash–GGBFS-Based Geopolymer Concrete Using Response Surface Methodology," International Journal of Material Science and Engineering, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 1-7, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23948884/IJMSE-V12I1P101

Abstract

Geopolymer concrete is a significant alternative material in its attempts to decrease environmental pollution and also dependence on high-carbon-emission Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). The concrete uses aluminate-silica-rich materials, such as fly ash and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), as its principal binder. But for an optimal mechanical performance, a proper design of the geopolymer concrete mix needs to be planned. In this study, the RSM method was used to find the optimal composition of geopolymer concrete with maximum compressive strength. The independent variables reviewed include the fly ash content (300–420 kg/m³) and GGBFS (100–180 kg/m³), as well as the alkali activator ratio Na₂SiO₃/NaOH. Based on the results of the RSM analysis, the optimum composition of geopolymer concrete was obtained at a fly ash content of approximately 418 kg/m³, GGBFS of approximately 143 kg/m³, and a Na₂SiO₃/NaOH ratio of 2.63. This composition is predicted to produce a maximum compressive strength of ±30–31 MPa, in line with the established design target. The results of this study indicate that the RSM approach is effective in optimizing the mix design ,of environmentally friendly geopolymer concrete and has the potential to be applied as a sustainable construction material.

Keywords

Geopolymer concrete, Resoposne Surface Methodology, Optimum strength, Ordinary Portland Cement, CCD.

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