GEOBLOCKS - A novel geopolymer concrete for breakwaters through an industrial symbiosis of waste generated in LCR

**The overreaching aim of this project is to develop industrial-scale application of cement-free geopolymer concrete composed of recycled aggregate (RA) and paper sludge ash (PSA) and activated with a waste silicate** (extracted from CRT and waste glass) for manufacturing concrete for breakwaters and other non-structural applications.

**Virtus is a Liverpool based SME** proposing novel **geopolymer** technology (Geoblock) **that will completely replace the usage of conventional natural virgin aggregate as well as carbon-intensive conventional alkali solution** (which is essential for geopolymer concrete) with three waste streams that otherwise will go to landfill sites, in addition, to complete replacement of cement.

**Geopolymer cement, an alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC),** is synthesised through the alkali-activation of constituents. Geopolymer concrete (GC) is very resistant to an aggressive environment and considered eco-friendly **(CO2 emissions cut by 80% compared to OPC**). However, the activator solutions that are used for activating alumina-silicate material represent an area of real concern for the use of conventional geopolymer. The activator solutions provide the highest single contribution to geopolymer's embodied carbon dioxide.

This project will develop the breakwater using novel cement-free geopolymer cement activated with waste alkali silicate activator and PSA with 100% recycled aggregates, with validated durability characteristics.

**Liverpool City Region (LCR) is at the centre of the new government strategy for Freeports, and a worldwide renowned maritime hub, with a clear strategy for climate resilience in place**. The Geoblock is a new unique design for low carbon used to protect shorelines and coastal areas as well as other non-structural applications. Climate action pledges have been made by governments, local authorities and companies and **Geoblock can help and support the reduction of CO2** **emissions** in the atmosphere by using a new recycled concrete mix that works in seawater.

**LCR based Virtus and its subsidiaries will be the first and only company globally to offer such technology**, making us the leading company in the sector with a unique new product that will help stakeholders fulfilling their carbon reduction pledge.