X-ray diffraction and microstructure studies of gum Arabic-cement concrete

The effects of the addition of gum Arabic powder (GA) to concrete have been evaluated using X-ray diffraction and microstructure methods analysis. Gum Arabic (GA) powder was added to concrete in proportions of 0.00%-1.00% by wt. of cement and cured for 28 days in water under laboratory conditions. The X-ray diffraction results showed that the K, Na, Mg, Ca, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Fe ions, identified in the chemical composition of GA were transformed into compounds of monoclinic, orthorhombic, triclinic, tetragonal and hexagonal minerals through hydration processes. The detection of minerals like Osumulite, Tobermolite, Mordenite and Wollastonite, in the X-ray diffraction samples can be said to impact on strength development of GAC. This assertion is strengthened further by such minerals like quartz, mica, and feldspar detected in the microstructure of GAC samples. The high water absorption and porosity of the GAC samples are as a result of the presence of minerals like Palgorskite and Mordenite. These are filler materials.