Geopolymer concrete is produced by mixing alumino-silicate material with alkaline

solution. Fly ash is one example of alumino-silicate material which is high in silica and alumina.
It can be used as material for binder in geopolymer concrete. The fly ash is activated with
sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide solution. Higher concentration of sodium hydroxide will
give higher compressive strength of geopolymer concrete.
There are some advantages or good effects of using geopolymer concrete in
construction industries. Firstly, it will give higher compressive strength than ordinary
concrete. It also is an excellent option for quick build as it has rapid strength gain and cures
quickly. Geopolymer concrete has high tensile strength, less brittle than Portland cement and
can withstand more movement compared to the traditional concrete.
Secondly, geopolymer concrete does not hydrate as it does not need the use of water.
It will not experience significant shrinkage. The creep of geopolymer is very low. It has low
tendency to become permanently deformed due to the constant forces being applied.
Thirdly, it has the ability to stay stable at high temperatures of more than 2200
degrees Fahrenheit. Excessive heat will reduce the stability of concrete causing it to spall.
However, geopolymer concrete does not experience spalling unless it reaches over 2200
degrees Fahrenheit. For cold temperatures, it is resistant to freezing. For ordinary concrete,
even though the pores are very small water can still enter. When temperature reach freezing
point, water will freeze thus expands and cause cracks to form. Since no usage of water in
geopolymer concrete, it will not freeze.
While the idea of geopolymer concrete seems ideal compared to Portland cement
concrete, there are also some disadvantages or bad effects of geopolymer concrete. Firstly, it
is difficult to create as it requires special handling needs. It requires the use of chemicals such
as sodium hydroxide that activates the alumino-silica material. Sodium hydroxide can be
harmful to humans.
Secondly, geopolymer concrete is sold as pre-mix material only due to harm
associated when creating it. Lastly, geopolymerization process is sensitive as this field of study
has been proven inconclusive and extremely volatile.
Both geopolymer concrete and Portland concrete have its issues. Some considerations
should be taken before choosing type of concrete to be used for constructions.