Performance of precursor characteristics in the realisation of geopolymer concrete: a review

Geopolymers are inorganic polymers whose formation is based on the reaction between precursors and reagents, which may be alkaline or acidic. The geopolymerisation process involves the reaction between alumina and silicate materials, known as precursors and reagents, which produces a three-dimensional polymeric network. This review provides a detailed classification of precursors used globally for geopolymer concrete (GPC) production, along with their various oxide contents. As the precursors used in the process of geopolymerisation involve a wide range of variations in their physio-chemical features, it is difficult to control the properties of GPC without going into a micro-level understanding of the precursor characteristics that affect the geopolymerisation mechanism. A comprehensive study was conducted on the influence of these physio-chemical precursor characteristics on the geopolymerisation process and the development of GPC properties. Finally, critical observations are drawn for the design of suitable precursors, along with possible methods to achieve the desired GPC property development.