A comprehensive review of nano materials in geopolymer concrete: Impact on properties and performance

Abstract

Geopolymerization in concrete production is a sustainable approach that utilizes industrial waste materials in conjunction with alkaline activators, such as sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate. Geopolymer concrete (GPC) has emerged as an environmentally friendly alternative, addressing the pressing concern of CO2 emissions associated with conventional cement manufacturing. However, GPC often exhibits suboptimal ambient-cured strength, necessitating the incorporation of nanomaterials to enhance its mechanical properties. This study delves into the investigation of diverse nanomaterial ratios and their profound impact on GPC properties. The research explores the application of engineering-favored additives, including nano-silica, aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, graphene, and carbon nanotubes, to bolster GPC attributes on a global scale. Notably, nanomaterial-modified GPC surpasses the strength of conventionally heat-cured GPC. In-depth microstructural and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses shed light on the intricate nature of nanomaterial-infused GPC, offering a comprehensive understanding of this pioneering composite. This paper serves as an extensive analysis of nanomaterial integration in GPC, unraveling its effects on the material’s characteristics and presenting valuable insights for future application. Incorporating nanomaterials in GPC yields impressive strength gains even under ambient curing conditions, overcoming the limitations of heat curing. Nano material infusion leads to improved concrete densification, reducing sorptivity and water absorption (%) of GPC. Durability against acidic conditions is enhanced by approximately 2–2.5% after the incorporation of nanomaterials in GPC.