A Quick Overview on Geopolymer Chemistry and General Properties

Abstract

In civil construction, new materials have emerged as alternatives to reduce the impact of the activity on the environment, one of them is the geopolymer. This material, which can be characterized as a stable and synthesized composite of aluminosilicate materials, has emerged as a potential substitute for Portland cement because it presents similar characteristics of initial strength and good mechanical performance, but without the high emission of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) to obtaining it. This work brings an overview on geopolymer chemical composition and general properties. It is intended to disseminate knowledge as of the state of the art on geopolymer as cement substitute. However, geopolymer cement still needs to be potentially exploited. This requires, among other things, that there be a dissemination of knowledge about the material in the field of civil construction, so that it becomes a known alternative not only in some niches. It is also necessary to develop technological options so that their failures of resistance and mechanical behavior, similar to Portland cement, are overcome.