Paper Key : IRJ************187
Author: Darshan S A,Akash Babu L A,Sadath Ali Khan Zai
Date Published: 06 Nov 2024
Abstract
This study focuses on evaluating the Impact resistance of geopolymer composite railway sleepers along with mechanical properties of four concrete matrices: M-60 (standard M-60 concrete), M-60+GF (M-60 with glass fiber), GPC-16M (geopolymer concrete with 16 molarity solution), and GPC-16M+GF (geopolymer concrete with 16 molarity and glass fiber). The research primarily examines compressive strength, flexural strength, and impact resistance, particularly for applications in railway sleepers. Using an instrumented pendulum-type impact testing machine, critical performance data such as load-time, displacement-time, and energy absorption were gathered. The results show that GPC-16M+GF exhibited the best performance across metrics. Its compressive strength was 25% higher than the control mix (M-60), and it demonstrated 65% greater flexural strength, highlighting its ability to withstand greater tensile forces. Additionally, GPC-16M+GF showed the highest load-carrying capacity and energy absorption, making it particularly resistant to the kinds of impact loads encountered in railway applications. These findings indicate that adding glass fiber to geopolymer concrete significantly enhances its mechanical strength and durability under impact, suggesting a strong potential for this material in improving the lifespan and reliability of railway infrastructure.