Optimization of mechanical properties in lime-based composites using the Taguchi method

Global warming is widely recognized as one of the most pressing issues of our time. One of the primary contributors to this phenomenon is the emission of CO2, which significantly exacerbates global warming. Today, the production and industry of cement stand out as leading sources of carbon emissions. Consequently, the scientific community is actively researching solutions to reduce cement usage. Some of these efforts focus on alternative binders such as silica fumes and lime. In this study, the goal is to enhance silica fume and lime binder composites, optimizing them for both refractory and insulating properties using the Taguchi optimization method. The results indicate significant improvements in compressive and flexural strengths, which were further validated through testing. The highest compressive strength achieved was 11.97 MPa, while the maximum flexural strength reached 0.34 MPa. This research underscores the potential of alternative binders in mitigating the environmental impact of cement production while enhancing material performance in various applications.