Geopolymer utilization in the pavement industry - An overview

The significant quantity of wastes has raised concern for their management and environmental effects. One of the alternatives ways is the reuse of waste in the construction industry through geopolymerization technology which incorporates waste materials with silica or/and alumina content with activator solution to form a matrix of geopolymers material. This process has attracted attention due to its successful application in different disciplines, influenced by its enhanced properties. This overview paper focuses on available research articles on geopolymers' utilization in the pavement industry. The study analyzes available works of literature on various geopolymer materials, composition, processes, and the use of geopolymer as artificial aggregate, aggregate substitute, or modifier for the asphalt mixtures. Based on the qualitative overview it was observed that sodium hydroxide or phosphoric acid solution molarity, liquid-to-binder ratio, duration of curing, and temperature affect the properties of geopolymer produced. Also, geopolymers show exceptional performances compared to conventional materials. Though, there is still limited literature about geopolymers pavement long-term performance as well as its response to extreme environmental conditions. Furthermore, there is no standard for the design and preparation of geopolymer modified pavements. From the review, it was ascertained that geopolymers have great potential to be utilized in the pavement industry, as evidenced by the positive and affirmative performances from various studies. In conclusion, it is recommended and encouraged that the pavement industry should explore and utilize more geopolymer materials during construction to promotes sustainability.