Particles size and distribution on the improvement of the mechanical performance of high strength solid solution based inorganic polymer composites: A microstructural approach

• Published in: Materials chemistry and physics 2021-07, Vol.267, p.124602, Article 124602
• Main Authors: Nana, Achile, Kamseu, Elie, Akono, Ange-Therese, Ngouné, Jean, Yankwa Djobo, Jean Noel, Tchakouté, Hervé Kouamo, Bignozzi, Maria Chiara, Leonelli, Cristina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy consumption; Impact resistance; Impact strength; Low porosity; Mechanical properties; Metakaolin; Microstructure; Natural stone; Particle size distribution; Particles packing; Particles size distribution; Pegmatite; Polymer matrix composites; Polymers; Solid solution; Solid solutions
• ISSN: 0254-0584; 1879-3312
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2021.124602

This research reports on the influence of particle size and distribution on the physical, mechanical and microstructural features of solid solutions (feldspathic materials) based inorganic polymer composites (IPCs). Both granite and pegmatite were ground to different degree of finess making four different granulometry with particles of 63, 80, 125 and 200 μm. The respective mixes receive 15 wt% of metakaolin and were activated with a well designed alkaline solution. Matrices obtained showed high compressive and flexural strengths in the range 101.2–131.3 MPa, and 29–35.5 MPa, respectively. It was observed that the optimum mechanical performance of these matrices can be achieved through a mix-design of different grades of granulometry. This was suggested by mechanism combining reactivity and particles packing. In fact, although it can be expected that the finess of the combination of the particles size under 63 μm might present the better reactivity, it is showing that the combination of fine, medium and coarse particles is efficient in achieving denser and tougher microstructure. Lower cumulative pore volume (17 mL g−1) of the composites based on pegmatite, value not far from that of natural stones, resulted in a higher impact resistance of 3.03 J. It was concluded that designing the feldspathic rock-based composites with high strengths appear as sustainable, low energy consumption and environmentally-friendly materials for the structural construction. [Display omitted] •The replacement of fine particles by coarse ones contributed to the reinforcement of the network of IPCs.•The particle size of aluminosilicates has significant effect on microstructure and mechanical properties of IPCs.•The addition of 50 wt% of particles between 125 and 200 μm increased the mechanical strengths.•The better flexural strength of pegmatite and granite-based IPCs obtained were 30.6 and 32.5 MPa respectively.•A clear correlation was being established between porosity, mechanical strength and impact energy.