| Geopolymers are inorganic polymers with 3D framework structures that exhibit superior mechanical and physical properties including high early strength, low shrinkage, good thermal resistance and good chemical resistance. The global warming scenario increased demands for the heat insulator material especially in the construction sector. Traditionally, ordinary Portland cement (OPC) has been used as the binder for concrete. However, the OPC have less resistance to thermal exposure. Therefore, development of other or alternative binders that can withstand the thermal exposure is considered vital in order to produce better thermal insulation material. Based on previous research, geopolymer offered good resistance to corrosion, abrasion and heat. Fly ash, metakaolin, kaolin, and slag are commonly used raw materials for the preparation of geopolymer composites. This geopolymer material also offers an innovative and sustainable solution for maintaining infrastructure. This paper summarizes review on the geopolymer processing and along with the potential of geopolymer composites for thermal insulating applications. This review includes geopolymer fundamentals and technology structure, geopolymerization mechanism, raw materials and preparation, and thermal performance of geopolymers. |
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