A review of the effects of fibres on the mechanical and durability characteristics of geopolymer composites

The sustainable construction sector has recently focused on using geopolymer concrete (GPC) as an alternative to traditional Portland cement concrete (PCC) in an effort to reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects. However, the pozzolanic reactions of source materials, such as fly ash, ground granulated blast-furnace slag, and metakaolin, cause GPC to exhibit quasi-brittle behaviour. Numerous studies have been conducted on the development, characterization, and practical application of fibre-reinforced geopolymers for various applications to address this issue. This paper discusses the effects of fibres on the material, mechanical, structural, and durability performance of GPC. The enhancement of compressive, flexural, tensile, impact, fracture, and durability parameters of fibre-reinforced GPC (FRGPC) is examined based on past research on various types of cementitious materials and fibre reinforcements. Analysis of previous research suggests that FRGPC has significant potential as a sustainable alternative to Portland cement composites, offering higher mechanical, durability, and structural performance. Further research is necessary to streamline its codes, database, and practical design standards with various fibres.