Eco-friendly geopolymer prepared from solid wastes: A critical review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Solid wastes pose environmental and health risks.
• Geopolymers offer a sustainable alternative for waste utilization.
• Research on solid waste-derived geopolymers is a growing field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review solid wastes utilized in geopolymer preparation.
• To analyze the structure, properties, and applications of these geopolymers.
• To highlight the potential and challenges of solid waste-based geopolymers.

Main Methods:

• Classification of solid wastes (industrial, agricultural, municipal) for geopolymer synthesis.
• Systematic review of geopolymer structure, properties, and applications.
• Analysis of the impact of solid waste characteristics on geopolymer performance.

Main Results:

• Solid waste characteristics influence geopolymer properties.
• Geopolymers show potential in concrete, fireproof, and impermeable materials.
• Geopolymers effectively immobilize heavy metals, demonstrating 'green material' properties.

Conclusions:

• Solid waste-based geopolymers are sustainable and environmentally friendly.
• Challenges in technology, economy, and administration hinder industrialization.
• Collaborative efforts are needed for the commercialization of these materials.