A State-of-the-Art Review on the Application of Geopolymerization/Geopolymer in Environmental Fields

Geopolymers, achieved through geopolymerization of aluminosilicate-containing precursors, are environmentally friendly inorganic binders with excellent mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and low carbon footprint. Beyond construction applications, geopolymers show great potential in environmental protection due to their ability to immobilize hazardous pollutants, adsorb ions and gases, and utilize industrial solid wastes. This review provides a state-of-the-art summary of recent advances in geopolymer applications in environmental fields, including (1) immobilization of hazardous wastes, (2) adsorption of hazardous ions and CO2, and (3) resource utilization of solid wastes through geopolymerization. The mechanisms underlying immobilization and adsorption are discussed, and research gaps and future directions will be highlighted to guide further development of geopolymer-based environmental materials or application of geopolymerization in solid waste utilization.