Clean technology option development for smart and multifunctional construction materials: Sustainable geopolymer composites

• Published in: Journal of Building Engineering
• Main Author: Asim N.; Badiei M.; Samsudin N.A.; Mohammad M.; Razali H.; Hui D.
• Format: Review
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85195867452&doi=10.1016%2fj.jobe.2024.109932&partnerID=40&md5=246381c30a5b2e47b1a864a21eaefa7e

Concerns about the environment, cost, availability of resources, compatibility and performance are always challenges in the construction industry. The development of a new generation of smart materials was in response to the need for advanced materials in modern and sustainable technology applications. These materials respond to a variety of environmental stimuli and exhibit their particular characteristics in a useful and controlled manner. Durability and performance are essential for achieving sustainable development in the construction industry, and green multifunctional smart materials that possess good mechanical properties must be developed. Geopolymers are good, sustainable and green substitutes for new construction materials. The technological and environmental benefits of geopolymer are driving ongoing development as a material for future engineering. Low-cost preparation techniques and the use of different waste materials as precursors could also potentially benefit from the ability to control their properties by adjusting critical variables. In this regard, many studies have focused on the development of geopolymer composites with multifunctional properties such as self-sensing, self-compacting, self-heating, self-curing, energy harvesting and self-cleaning features for construction applications. This study extensively reviews the conducted research on developed smart geopolymers and their mechanism, preparation methods, properties and performance to provide a new vision of innovative processes and techniques while considering limitations and opportunities in construction technology. This study provides recommendations and a deeper understanding for professionals, decision-makers and investors in the construction industry on the use of smart geopolymers as building materials for sustainable development. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd