Geopolymer Materials: Cutting-Edge Solutions for Sustainable Design Building

Laura Ricciotti (), Caterina Frettoloso, Rossella Franchino, Nicola Pisacane and Raffaella Aversa ()
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Laura Ricciotti: Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Aversa, CE, Italy
Caterina Frettoloso: Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Aversa, CE, Italy
Rossella Franchino: Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Aversa, CE, Italy
Nicola Pisacane: Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Aversa, CE, Italy
Raffaella Aversa: Department of Architecture and Industrial Design, University of Campania, Luigi Vanvitelli, 81031 Aversa, CE, Italy

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-32

Abstract: The development of innovative and environmentally sustainable construction materials is a strategic priority in the context of the ecological transition and circular economy. Geopolymers and alkali-activated materials, derived from industrial and construction waste rich in aluminosilicates, are gaining increasing attention as low-carbon alternatives to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), which remains one of the main contributors to anthropogenic CO 2 emissions and landfill-bound construction waste. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of geopolymer-based solutions for building and architectural applications, with a particular focus on modular multilayer panels. Key aspects, such as chemical formulation, mechanical and thermal performance, durability, technological compatibility, and architectural flexibility, are critically examined. The discussion integrates considerations of disassemblability, reusability, and end-of-life scenarios, adopting a life cycle perspective to assess the circular potential of geopolymer building systems. Advanced fabrication strategies, including 3D printing and fibre reinforcement, are evaluated for their contribution to performance enhancement and material customisation. In parallel, the use of parametric modelling and digital tools such as building information modelling (BIM) coupled with life cycle assessment (LCA) enables holistic performance monitoring and optimisation throughout the design and construction process. The review also explores the emerging application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for predictive mix design and material property forecasting, identifying key trends and limitations in current research. Representative quantitative indicators demonstrate the performance and environmental potential of geopolymer systems: compressive strengths typically range from 30 to 80 MPa, with thermal conductivity values as low as 0.08–0.18 W/m·K for insulating panels. Life cycle assessments report 40–60% reductions in CO 2 emissions compared with OPC-based systems, underscoring their contribution to climate-neutral construction. Although significant progress has been made, challenges remain in terms of long-term durability, standardisation, data availability, and regulatory acceptance. Future perspectives are outlined, emphasising the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, digital integration, and performance-based codes to support the full deployment of geopolymer technologies in sustainable building and architecture.

Keywords: geopolymers; sustainable building materials; alkali-activated binders; prefabricated panels; architectural design; parametric modelling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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