Lightweight geopolymer concrete: A critical review on the feasibility, mixture design, durability properties, and microstructure

Lightweight geopolymer concretes have gained attention because of their superior durability, lower environmental impact and sustainable characteristics. They are the product of natural or artificial aggregates with low specific gravities mixed with aluminosilicate binders, and an alkaline solution. In this study, different aspects of lightweight geopolymer concretes and mortars such as environmental and economic considerations, materials and mixture, durability-related properties like permeability, chloride attacks and performance at high temperatures, thermal conductivity, and the microstructure are reviewed. This study also discusses the effect of different geopolymer binders and various alkaline activators and additives with focus on lightweight geopolymer concrete made with different lightweight aggregates. The key results from previous studies in literature pertaining mix proportions, chemical composition and properties of lightweight geopolymers are summarized and presented. The main aim is to provide an informed outlook on the advantages and drawbacks of lightweight geopolymer concretes and present a comprehensive review of the studies performed in this area.