Investigating the possibility of utilization of kaolin and the potential of metakaolin to produce green cement for construction purposes-A review

Abstract

Geopolymers are inorganic alkali aluminosilicate gels, formed from reaction of mineral clays or aluminosilicate-bearing industrial wastes, and treated with alkali silicate solution at 40-80°C. Geopolymers have been studied for several decades due to their excellent mechanical properties. They are suitable for use in construction and refractory applications. This paper summarizes some important research findings over the last 30 years and attempts to explain the chemistry and reaction mechanisms of the geopolymerisation process. Moreover, the paper emphasizes the potential to produce green cement powder from kaolin and metakaolin as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC).