A Successful story of GEOSUMAT

The GEOSUMAT project has the objective of utilizing local waste materials as replacements for all compounds in geopolymers, namely precursors, activators, and aggregates. Over 30 different materials were analyzed with various techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), etc., and classified as geopolymer input materials in the developed database.

GEOSUMAT project partners from Norway, Poland, the Czech Republic, Iceland, and Romania systematically approached the invention of different eco-friendly geopolymers based on locally available secondary raw materials/waste streams in their countries. In order to enhance carbon reduction, our geopolymer mixes are enriched by CO2 on the input material level, conducted by GEROSION, Iceland.

The optimization of the mix designs was carried out using three variables: A) a variety of base materials for geopolymerization, (B) a variable ratio of elements in the composites, and (C) selection of the optimal fraction of raw materials for the binders. The mix design optimization is supported by an investigation of the materials’ microstructure using different techniques.

The mixtures containing slag, metakaolin and wood waste ash obtained by researchers at UiT, Norway showed promising results, with early-age strength as high as 70 MPa in 10 hours. Compressive strength of geopolymers based on calcium fly ash, sand, and calcined and non-calcined activated diatomite, provided by GORTECH company, reaching 30 MPa was achieved by Cracow University of Technology, Poland.

Additionally, the modified pull-out tests showed satisfactory adhesion between the geopolymer matrix and basalt minibars from ReforceTech and steel fibers. Fiber interaction with geopolymer mortar was investigated closely by Gabriel Furtos from Babeș-Bolyai University, Romania. Electrical conductivity tests conducted at the Czech Technical University in Prague showed that the developed materials possess the capability of self-healing.

The first trial of the practical application of the developed geopolymers included the fabrication and testing of industrial floor tiles in the Czech Republic by CHEMSTR - ŠAFAŘÍK company. Experimental analyses were supported by environmental analyses to expose the reduction of the carbon footprint of newly developed materials. 

The research work in GEOSUMAT was disseminated through 15 scientific publications, 9 conference papers, and several other publications. The research topic was promoted through the inclusion of master's and PhD students and early-stage researchers, followed by the generation of a master's thesis. A highlight of students' achievements is Heiðar Snær Ásgeirsson and Gonzalo Patricio Eldredge Arenas receiving the Icelandic Innovation Award from the President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson.

All achieved results, and the way forward will be disseminated during an online seminar broadcast from Iceland, following the final meeting hosted by GEROSION in Reykjavik, Iceland, in May 2025.

The success story of the GEOSUMAT project can be found on https://www.m-era.net/success-stories.

In conclusion, the GEOSUMAT project has successfully proved the potential of using local waste materials sustainable and high-performance geopolymers. Through international collaboration and research, the project has achieved significant advancements in reducing carbon emissions and developing eco-friendly construction materials.