Structural behavior of reinforced geopolymer concrete beams – A review

Abstract

A potential novelconstructionmaterial that is relativelyeco-friendly in manufacturing and has a comparatively low carbon footprint is geopolymer concrete (GPC). GPC is a largely unexplored topic in the literature due to its novelty as a material, particularly in terms of itsstructural behaviour. Reinforced concrete (RC) beams are the most common concrete application in the construction industry. Therefore, this review study intends to provide a greater understanding of GPC by summarizing and discussing the most updated data on the structural performance of reinforced geopolymer concrete (RGPC) beams. The evaluation highlights the flexural and shear behaviour of RC beams made with GPC and compared with those of ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPCC). The reported literature demonstrated that the structural behaviour of RGPC beams is comparable to that of conventional OPCC beams. Further, the failure mode of RGPC beams in flexure and shear was nearly identical to that of OPCC beams. Review of the literature showed that GPC beams might be employed safely with the existing standards. However, to assure its viability in the industry, full-scale investigations on the structural behaviour are required for mass use in a variety of application areas and to promote cleaner and sustainable choices in the construction industry. Overall, this review offers guidance for researchers and civil engineers in conducting future studies on GPC.