Hands-On Comprehensive Experiment for Synthesis of Geopolymer Materials and Their Hydrophobic Modification for Undergraduates

GPs are a novel class of inorganic polymeric network gel materials characterized by low CO2 emissions during production and the utilization of diverse industrial solid wastes as raw materials. They are formed through chemical activation and serve as sustainable green alternatives to OPC. In order to integrate the fundamental knowledge of chemistry and materials science with practical applications and scientific frontiers, we have designed a comprehensive experimental teaching module for undergraduate materials science students, which has demonstrated satisfactory teaching effectiveness. This module focuses on elaborating the fabrication techniques of functional GPs as well as assessing hydrophobic modification strategies aimed at improving their waterproofing performance, impermeability, and long-term durability. Additionally, we propose a multidimensional assessment methodology for experimental teaching, along with reforms in laboratory operation mechanisms and expansions in experimental content. This comprehensive experimental teaching design enhances students’ interdisciplinary expertise in chemistry and materials science while simultaneously improving their practical skills, research interest, and innovation ability.