| Abstract: |
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) production contributes to nearly 8% of global CO₂ emissions, forcing the global construction industry under the climate change pressure. One of the most promising sustainable alternatives is geopolymer concrete (GPC), which is made by activating industrial by-products including fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and metakaolin as aluminosilicate precursors using alkaline solutions. This review paper provides a meta-analysis of the published literature comparison between the mechanical, durability, micro-structural, and environmental performance of geopolymer concrete vis-a-vis conventional OPC concrete. This paper synthesises findings from over three decades of global research to assess the development of compressive and tensile strength, flexural behaviour, resistance to acid and sulphate attack, fire resistance, shrinkage and workability characteristics. The review also looks at how activator type and concentration, curing conditions, precursor composition and water-to-binder ratio influence the final GPC properties. In conclusion, when reviewed collectively the evidence shows that geopolymer concrete is comparable, if not superior, to OPC concrete in most performance metrics relevant to engineering application across a broad range of contexts, whilst achieving reductions in carbon emissions of 40–80 %. The paper highlights research gaps that should be filled and outlines a vision for large-scale deployment, standardisation and life-cycle cost impact in order to position geopolymer concrete as an alternative, practical and sustainable construction material for the twenty-first century. |
