Assessment of the Effects of Boron Nitride Nanoplatelets Reinforcement on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of the Geopolymer Prepared by Natural Kaolinite: An In Vitro Study

We aimed to assess the effects of the addition of boron nitride nanoplatelets on the physical and mechanical properties of the geopolymer prepared by natural kaolinite.

The compressive strength and diametral tensile strength tests were conducted according to BS 1881-116:1983 and ASTM E9-89a(2000) using an atomic force max instrument. The surface microhardness of the geopolymer was evaluated using a Digital Vickers microhardness tester, following the guidelines outlined in ASTM E92-82(2003). The contact angle (wettability) tests were carried out according to ASTM D7334-08(2022).

There were statistically significant differences among all study groups regarding compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, surface hardness, and wettability (p < 0.001).

The boron nitride nanoplatelets reinforcement has a significant impact on the compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, surface microhardness, and wettability of the geopolymer, providing valuable insights for future research and development in this field.