Fiber-reinforced geopolymer composites: A review

Abstract There is a burgeoning interest in the development of geopolymers as sustainable construction materials and incombustible inorganic polymers. However, geopolymers show quasi-brittle behavior. To overcome this weakness, hundreds of research have been focused on development, characterization, and implementation of fiber-reinforced geopolymers for a wide range of applications. This paper discusses the rapidly developing state-of-the-art of fiber-reinforced geopolymer composites, focusing on material and geometrical properties of construction fibers, and underlying mechanisms on fiber-binder interaction at fresh and hardened states, mechanical properties, toughening mechanisms, thermal characteristics, and environmental durability. It is intended to build a strong conceptual and technical background for what is currently understood on fiber-reinforced geopolymers by tying the subject together with knowns for other similar cementitious composites rather than a historical report of literature.