GF-Borax Geopolymer Composite

200% tougher in bending

Synergistic glass fiber and borax modification of phosphate geopolymer simultaneously improves flexural strength and fracture work, overcoming the compressive strength loss typical of fiber-only reinforcement.

Xingyuan, Yang · He, Min · Xinyu, Peng · Ou, Zhihua

Structures 2025

Specifications

Compressive strength (optimal GF)

{'zh': '39', 'en': '39'} MPa

Flexural strength

{'zh': '7.86', 'en': '7.86'} MPa

Fracture work

{'zh': '608.13', 'en': '608.13'} J/m²

Advantages

No compressive loss

Borax promotes geopolymerization and forms a new three-dimensional gel network that enhances matrix strength and fiber-matrix interfacial bonding, thereby maintaining compressive strength while improving flexural performance.

2× tougher

At 2% glass fiber content, fracture work reaches 608.13 J/m², an increase of 226.51%, meaning the material absorbs much more energy before failure.

Applications

• Structural retrofitting：For flexural strengthening and toughening of existing building structures.
• Fireproof insulation：Utilizing geopolymer's inherent fire resistance to produce non-combustible insulation boards.
• Composite sandwich panels：As core or face sheets in sandwich panels, improving delamination resistance and energy absorption.
• Corrosion-resistant components：Replace metal or ordinary concrete components in corrosive environments such as acid or salt exposure.