Geopolymers vs. Cement Matrix Materials: How Nanofiller Can Help a Sustainability Approach for Smart Construction Applications-A Review | JoVE Visualize

Geopolymers vs. Cement Matrix Materials: How Nanofiller Can Help a Sustainability Approach for Smart Construction Applications-A Review

Marco Valente^1,2, Matteo Sambucci^1,2, Abbas Sibai¹

¹Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials, Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy.

Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)|August 27, 2021

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Geopolymers offer a sustainable alternative to Portland cement concrete, demonstrating competitive performance and reduced environmental impact. This study details their properties and compares them to conventional concrete for optimized use.

Area of Science:

Materials Science
Civil Engineering
Sustainable Construction

Background:

Growing demand for eco-sustainable construction materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption in the cement industry.
Geopolymers are emerging as viable alternatives to conventional Portland cement concrete due to their competitive technological properties.
Need for comprehensive analysis of geopolymer performance against traditional concrete.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the mix design, mechanical, microstructural, and mineralogical properties of geopolymer mixes.
To analyze the influence of synthesis parameters (curing, precursors, activator molarity, mix design) on geopolymer performance.
To compare geopolymer concrete with ordinary Portland concrete regarding strength, durability, fire resistance, and environmental impact.

Main Methods:

Detailed mix design and characterization of geopolymer formulations.
Investigation of synthesis parameter effects on geopolymer properties.
Comparative analysis including Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for environmental impact.
Review of recent advancements, including the integration of nanofillers.

Main Results:

Geopolymers exhibit properties competitive with ordinary Portland concrete.
Synthesis parameters significantly influence the final performance of geopolymer materials.
Integration of nanofillers shows promise for further technological development.
Comparative studies highlight advantages and limitations of geopolymer technology.

Conclusions:

Geopolymers present a promising eco-sustainable alternative in the construction industry.
Further research and targeted optimization are needed to fully leverage geopolymer technology.
Geopolymers offer significant potential for reducing the environmental footprint of concrete production.