Impact of fiber reinforcements on properties of geopolymer composites: A review

Abstract

Conventional Portland cement-based composites are inherently weak under tensile stresses, due to its high brittleness quotient, and the problem gets further aggravated in geopolymer composites due to pozzolanic effect of precursors like fly ash, GGBFS, etc. Fiber reinforcement in conventional Portland cement concrete have been adopted, for quite some time, to remodel its character from brittle to ductile or quasi-ductile along with significant enhancement in mechanical as well as durability characteristics. With the global emphasis on partial or full replacement of Portland cement-based products in the construction industry and with the advent of “geopolymer” composite as potential replacement, efforts have been made to use fiber reinforcement in geopolymer composites to enhance its performance and service life. The development of fiber reinforced geopolymer composite (FRGC) being relatively new, the paper envisages to contribute to overall understanding and assessment of fiber utility in geopolymer materials. Against this background, a comprehensive database is developed based on past research work and pin-point research gaps for further study and analysis. Analytical assessment of past research reveals that FRGCs possess immense potential as a viable substitute for Portland cement-based composites with a scope for providing better mechanical, durability and structural performances, besides being more environmentally friendly. Further research is required to streamline its database, codes and practical design standards with different fibers, parameters and conditions.