Metakaolin Clay, a Geopolymer, is a unique blend of Water Glass, Sodium Hydroxide, Water, and Metakaolin powder. Its structure and consistency closely resemble that of Pottery Clay. This study delves into the potential of Kaolin as a strengthening additive, envisioning its future use as a ceramic or cement substitute in concrete. The water content in the Metakaolin Clay mixture plays a critical role, as it can boost concrete’s compressive and flexural strength, thereby enhancing its mechanical properties.
In this experimentation, we found that the ratio of liquids added to the Metakaolin, as well as the type of Metakaolin, made a difference in the consistency of the final material. If more liquid was in the solution, the Metakaolin powder seemed to be absorbed by the water, making it harder to reach the correct consistency needed to work on the Potterbot clay extruder. During the experiment, a different brand of Metakaolin powder was introduced, which changed the consistency significantly. It hardened faster and bound in the Potterbot tube, making it impossible to 3D print.
In conclusion, it is important to pay attention to the viscosity of the mixture, especially when changing the Metakaolin powder source. Though this specific mixture could not be successfully 3D printed, it hardened so significantly that further experimentation could investigate how it can either replace concrete or improve the strength of traditional concrete, therefore creating an effective lifecycle for industrial waste.
Emma Farias, Shreyas Poojary, Shriyam Rai
2 hours
4/10
