Within certain limits the geopolymer demonstrates elastic characteristics. Hooke’s Law indicates that compression is proportional to the applied forces and will not exceed more than 2 % - 10 % in deviation.Only when force exceeds the elastic limit is the internal cellular structure permanently modified and will not recover its initial form. The elastic limit depends on the density of the material.The four diagrams on the right indicate the effect of density on its resistance to forces of compression, shear, bending and tension.
Geopolymer is primarily used to consolidate ground and to re-level settled structures. It is clear that, from a practical point of view, the most important property is compressive strength. Diagram 6.1a relates the density of the material to its compressive strength. The usual surface density of geopolymer which is about 70kg/m3 when injected beneath flooring, can reach 300 kg/m3 in deep injection levels.The elastic limit varies between 10 and 65 kg/cm2.
Geopolymer has considerable shear strength, which for a standard thickness to the ASTM standard, varies from 5 and 30 kg/cm2 according to the density of the material.
PowerPile geopolymer pillar is an internationally patented technology for ground improvement and structural support.