Geopolymers as Sustainable Materials: A Short Review
Authors
Shova R Bhattarai, Mubarak Adesina, Ali Akbari
Abstract
Geopolymers are rising as a preferred green alternative to Portland cement due to their superior mechanical and chemical properties, durability factor, and reduced carbon footprint. This review combines the latest developments in geopolymer research, zeroing in on optimizing raw materials, choosing activators, assessing durability, and keeping costs in check. Mechanochemical activation plays a crucial role in boosting the microstructural integrity of fly ash and dredged sediments, enabling compressive strengths over 80 MPa. Interestingly, new alternative activators, like sodium silicate from coal bottom ash, can cut costs by up to 30% without sacrificing performance compared to conventional sodium silicate. Durability tests reveal that geopolymers have better resistance to sulfate and acid than regular cement. However, the effects of carbonation vary depending on exposure conditions and the composition of the precursor materials. Economic studies suggest that producing geopolymers could lower CO? emissions by 25-50% and reduce costs by up to 30%, influenced by the availability of raw materials and processing techniques. However, there are still significant gaps in our knowledge. More validation of geopolymers’ long-term performance under different environmental conditions through field trials is needed. Moreover, the inconsistency in industrial by-products makes it tricky to standardize mix designs for consistent mechanical properties. To ensure they endure over time, more extensive research is essential to understand how carbonation affects geopolymer stability in real-world settings. Upcoming studies should focus on refining activator compositions, improving mix ratios, and incorporating reinforcement strategies to boost mechanical strength and durability. Tackling these issues is crucial for the broader adoption of geopolymer technology in sustainable construction.
Keyword: Geopolymers, Sustainable construction, Durability performance, Carbon footprint reduction, Economic feasibility.
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