Geo-polymer concretes: Structure, properties and materials

In recent years, different types of special concretes have been produced and used according to the usage principles of the buildings. One of these concretes is alkali active concretes produced without the need for cement production which is known as geopolymer concrete. Their high early strength, less drying-shrinkage, high fire, abrasion & acid resistance, less CO2 emissions, least setting time, and high freeze-thaw & corrosion resistance are reasons this type of concrete has emerged as an alternative to portland cement concrete. This concrete is formed by the reaction of material rich in alumina and silica with the activator. Since geopolymer concrete is more environmentally friendly than cementitious concrete, it has been the subject of many studies. Geopolymer concretes have some disadvantages despite all these advantages. One of them is brittleness. It is known that adding fibers to geopolymer concretes positively affects brittleness and ductility, compressive strength, and flexural strength. Also, mineral additives strengthen the durability of concrete. This work presents a summary of the literature on geopolymer concrete's foundations and disadvantages compared to portland cement concrete, mix proportions that give the best strength, management of fiber additives, performance analysis against burst rate, and resistance to attack.