Geopolymers as a Sustainable Binder of 21st Century: A Review

Geopolymer is a new sustainable building material, developed to reduce CO2 foot print of existing cementing material. The material offers mechanical properties comparable to Ordinary Portland cements. Advantages associated with this material include thermal stability, acid resistance, compact structure, low density and ability to encapsulate hazardous wastes.Mainly composed of waste ashes and land fill material, this material shows multiple level of sustainability. Although, most of the research is focused in the field of construction industry, there is other utilization of this material. Catalysis, coating, encapsulation of hazardous waste and separation are some of the other applications. This review discusses a brief introduction geopolymer, its history and utilization in various fields. Goals for future research are also included as part of this review.