Geopolymer binders - interdependence of composition, structure and properties

Anyone familiar with the atmosphere of major conferences who also values the opportunity of making new contacts and keeping up old ones will, nonetheless, frequently miss intensive expert discussion in his or her current field of work. This was the starting point for the Workshop on Geopolymer Binders held at the Bauhaus University of Weimar from September 18–19, 2006. The target of this three-year-project (2004-2007) is that of incorporating live-cycle-analysis and system-analytical tools into the materials development of geopolymers at an early stage. Of the numerous possible geopolymer compositions, the most technically, economically and ecologically advantageous for specific applications, compared to conventional materials, were to be selected, tested and evaluated. Their research work focuses, for example, on long-term behavior and environmental balance, in addition to the required technical property profile. The ecological balance is drawn in this context not after completion of process and material development, but continuously throughout the development project. The proceedings include 9 papers of 10 presentations given on the workshop. Beside the demonstration of the three project partners, six well-known international colloquies – with diverse scientific background, ranging from organic chemistry, technical ceramics and civil engineering – presented their research results.