Exploration of the mechanical properties, durability and application of geopolymers: a review
Shoushuai Dai, Hongguang Wang, Hao Wu, Maohua Zhang
Abstract
Geopolymers are amorphous, quasi-crystalline, three-dimensional networked gel structures formed by the reaction of aluminosilicate raw materials and alkali activators and are composed of silicon-oxygen tetrahedrons and aluminum-oxygen tetrahedrons. They have excellent mechanical properties, durability and environmental friendliness and can be used as a substitute for Portland cement in civil engineering. In this paper, the current research achievements of geopolymers are reviewed, including the structure type, preparation process, mechanical performance, durability and application of geopolymers in civil engineering. When compared with those of ordinary Portland cement, the mechanical properties of geopolymers not only meet the specification requirements but also show carbonation resistance, acid resistance and high temperature resistance. In addition, the raw materials of geopolymers, such as fly ash and blast furnace slag, are all derived from industrial waste; the use of geopolymers can realize waste recycling, which has extremely high economic benefits. This paper introduces its applications in soil stabilization and silt solidification, curing heavy metals, pavement repair materials and so on. The shortcomings in the current research of geopolymer are also briefly analyzed. This article reviews geopolymers from multiple perspectives, trying to give a more comprehensive understanding of geopolymers.