Inorganic polymers (geopolymers) are alkali-activated materials, generally aluminosilicates, with ceramic-like properties. Their formation at ambient temperatures from industrial by-products or wastes without the generation of greenhouse gases makes them environmentally-friendly substitutes for Portland cement, while their unique properties of thermal shock resistance, binding capability with silicates or metals, high compressive strength and fire and acid resistance makes them suitable for many other applications. Geopolymers are X-ray amorphous materials which can be heated to 800-1000 oC before being converted to crystalline or semi-crystalline ceramics with almost no shrinkage. The exchange ability of the charge-balancing cations in their structure has opened up a number of new high-technology applications such as the photodegradation of hazardous organic substances, removal of heavy metals and bacterial pollutants in water and new catalysts. The mechanical properties of geopolymers can be improved by reinforcement with inorganic or organic fibres for engineering applications, making these extremely versatile materials.

Session Topics

CM-1 Preparation and characterization

CM-2 Applications

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