The Synthesis and Characterization of Geopolymers Based on Metakaolin and on Automotive Glass Waste

The presented article studies a metakaolin-based geopolymer matrix for which two types of non-recyclable automotive glass waste (AGW) have been used as an alternative aggregate. Their composition and character, as well as their influence on the properties and structure of geopolymer composites (AGW-Gs), have been investigated by means of X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction analyses, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Infrared analysis has proven that the use of AGW does not affect the formation of geopolymer bonds. GC/MS analysis has revealed the presence of triethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexanoate) in AGW and geopolymers, whose concentration varied according to the size of the fractions used. Preliminary compressive-strength tests have shown the promising potential of AGW-Gs. From the presented results, based on the study of two types of automotive glass waste, it is possible to assume that automotive glass will generally behave in the same or a similar manner in metakaolin-based geopolymer matrices and can be considered as potential alternative aggregates. The result is promising for the current search for new sources of raw materials, for ensuring resource security, for the promotion of sustainability and innovation and for meeting the needs of the growing world population while reducing dependence on limited resources.