Novel hybrid organic-geopolymer materials

Novel hybrid organic–inorganic materials were prepared through an innovative synthetic approach based on a co-reticulation in mild conditions of epoxy based organic resins and an MK-based geopolymer inorganic matrix. A high compatibility between the organic and inorganic phases, even at appreciable concentration of resin, was realized up to micrometric level. A good and homogeneous dispersion (without the formation of agglomerates) of the organic particles was obtained just by hand mixing. These new materials present significantly enhanced compressive strengths and toughness in respect to the neat geopolymer allowing a wider utilization of these materials for structural applications.

► Novel hybrid organic–inorganic materials were prepared.
► An innovative synthetic approach based on co-reticulation was proposed.
► Enhanced mechanical properties in respect to neat geopolymer have been obtained.