Recent developments on inorganic polymers synthesis and applications

An overview of advances in geopolymers formed by the alkaline activation of aluminosilicates is presented with their technological and commercial potentials. The potentiality to valorize a wide range of synthetic and natural aluminosilicate minerals or industrial aluminosilicate byproducts using geopolymerization is highlighted. Factors affecting the reactivity of the raw materials and the properties of the products are outlined with an emphasis on the safety and commercial approaches. Some recent applications of geopolymer in the fields of building materials, fire resistant materials, thermal insulation and purification are presented. It is observed that geopolymers are progressively overcoming the challenges associated to their use for the manufacturing of engineering materials for commercial purposes. This is driven by their environmental benefits and possibility to utilize a large component of recycled materials. The progress on standardization and the successful design of pathways with a good combination of safety, cost reduction, desired properties and the ease with which they can be used, are the key parameters that will enhance the development of geopolymers for engineering applications.