Marine Durability of Alkali-Activated Materials Under Multi-Ion Attack: Mechanisms, Responses, and Mitigation Strategies

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are widely regarded as promising alternatives to ordinary Portland cement for marine engineering because of their low carbon footprint, efficient utilization of industrial by-products, and potentially favorable mechanical and durability performance. However, their long-term application in marine environments remains challenging, as the original advantages of AAMs can be progressively weakened by the individual and coupled actions of aggressive seawater ions, particularly chloride (Cl−), sulfate (SO42−), and magnesium (Mg2+). These ions affect AAMs through distinct but interconnected mechanisms, including chloride binding and transport, competitive ion interactions, phase transformation, destabilization of reaction products, pore-structure evolution, and the subsequent degradation of macroscopic properties. Meanwhile, the response of AAMs to marine exposure is highly system-dependent, since precursor chemistry, activator design, reaction-product assemblage, and pore structure strongly govern their resistance to ion attack. In recent years, considerable efforts have been devoted to improving the marine durability of AAMs through composition and phase design, pore-structure refinement, and transport control. Nevertheless, current understanding remains fragmented, particularly regarding the coupled effects of multiple seawater ions and the links between microstructural evolution and long-term performance. The primary purpose of this review is to provide a systematic overview of the marine durability of AAMs from the perspectives of multi-ion threats, material-dependent responses, and existing mitigation strategies. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of Cl−, SO42−, and Mg2+, the controlling effects of precursor and activator chemistry, and the translation of micro-mechanisms into macroscopic durability evolution. By integrating these aspects within a unified framework, this review aims to support the design and application of AAMs for reliable long-term use in coastal and offshore engineering. Future research should prioritize standardized multi-ion exposure protocols, coupled transport–reaction models, long-term field validation, and durability assessment of reinforced AAM concretes under realistic marine conditions.