Geopolymers are alkali activated cement obtained basically from alunimosilicates matrixes either from industrial by-products or wastes. They are interesting ceramic-like materials, often regarded as concrete materials based on non-Portland cement binders or geocement, with many applications as a consequence of their unique properties of thermal shock resistance, binding capability with silicates or metals, waste encapsulation and inertization, high compressive strength, fire or acid resistance. Produced at room temperature and pressure, they are completely amorphous matrixes which can be heated up to 800-1000 °C before being converted in crystalline or semi-crystalline materials with almost no shrinkage. Geopolymers can reduce significantly the greenhouse gas emission and increase resource efficiency with a correct design and manufacture. This mineral chemistry application has already reached commercial products which are rapidly developing from low tech building block to carbon fiber reinforced materials for aerospace applications.

Session Topics

CK-1 Preparation

• Synthesis and processing
• Geopolymerisation kinetics
• Conversion to ceramics
• Coatings, composites, interfaces

CK-2 Characterization

• Microstructure and porosity
• Thermal stability and thermal shock resistance
• Mechanical properties
• Chemical stability and inertisation capability
• Adhesive properties

CK-3 Industrialization

• “Readymixed” geopolymer concrete
• Design, manufacturing, reliability, long-term durability
• Case studies of ongoing applications ( refractory, sealants, tooling, civil engineering, aerospace, toxic and radioactive waste immobilisation, etc.)
• Novel applications
• Commercialisation issues

SUBMIT AN ABSTRACT