Andi Yusra, Muhammad Arrie Rafshanjani Amin, Muttaqin Hasan, Husni Husin, Teuku Budi Aulia, Fachruddin Fachruddin, Suryadi Suryadi, Zakia Zakia, Sanusi Sanusi, Lissa Opirina, Andrisman Satria
The study explores the influence of silica fume (SF) on the mechanical and microstructural properties of biomass-derived geopolymer mortars. Three pozzolanic precursors rice husk ash (RHA), palm shell ash (PSA), and laterite soil ash (LSA) were combined with SF at substitution levels of 0–20% by binder weight. Alkaline activation employed 6M NaOH and 2.65M sodium silicate. Compressive strength tests, XRD, FTIR, and SEM analyses were conducted. Results showed a substantial strength increase, particularly in RHA-based mortars, from 19 MPa to 52 MPa at 20% SF. XRD and FTIR analyses indicated enhanced gel formation with dominant amorphous phases and stronger Si–O–T and O–H vibrations. SEM images revealed denser microstructures with lower porosity. These findings demonstrate that SF significantly enhances geopolymerization and mechanical performance. The study offers new insights into the use of biomass-derived materials and SF for developing high-performance, sustainable construction mortars. © 2026 MIM Research Group. All rights reserved. Published articles are freely available to users under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution - NonCommercial 4.0 International Public License, as currently displayed at here (the "CC BY - NC"). https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/legalcode
Department of Civil Engineering, Universitas Teuku Umar, Meulaboh, Indonesia; Department of Civil Engineering, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia; Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia; Department of Information Technology, Universitas Teuku Umar, Meulaboh, Indonesia
Research at a Glance
Register to unlock
Topics & SDG Alignment
Register to unlock
Collaboration
Register to unlock
Author Profile (Selected)
Register to unlock
References Overview
Register to unlock
Journal & Source
Register to unlock
Metadata & Integrity
Register to unlock