The Propeties and Applications of Geopolymers: a review

Aluminosilicate inorganic polymer also known as geopolymer, consists of alternating monomers being SiO4 and AlO4 tetrahedral joined by a shared oxygen. These polymers are produced by the alkaline activation of aluminosilicate minerals such as kaolinite under hydrothermal conditions. The composition and properties of the final polymer are controlled by the mineral and activating solution, also affected by the thermal treatment of the mixture. Inorganic polymers have a high mechanical strength and high fire, acid, water and temperature resistance. These polymers can be used in a variety of different application such as, cementing agent, immobilization systems for heavy metal containment, radioactive waste, and fire resistance composites in buildings. The structural nature of the geopolymers has been studied at the macro, micro and nanoscales. This review is a discussion relating to the properties of geopolymers. Emphasis is given on the use of these materials as immobilisation systems for hazardous materials.

Keywords:

geopolymers , alumino silicates , invironment , wastes , immobilisation