Synthesis and Characterization of Metakaolin‐Based Geopolymer for Industrial Application

Materials with enhanced properties are currently in high demand. Consequently, the ability to synthesize these materials efficiently, using low energy and without adverse environmental impact, has become a critical research priority. For this reason, geopolymers present an attractive prospect for researchers in material science and engineering. In this study, metakaolin (Kankara kaolin after dehydroxylization) was used as precursor for synthesis of geopolymer and its chemical composition was assessed by X‐ray fluorescence (XRF). The characterization of metakaolin and geopolymer was performed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The results from FTIR indicated a shift in frequency band confirming the occurrence of geopolymerization. XRD peaks verified the crystalline phase and amorphous phase of metakaolin and geopolymer consistent with FTIR. The TGA/DTA of geopolymer showed higher thermal resistivity, lower weight loss, lower rate of degradation, and volatization. In conclusion, a suitable geopolymer, with fitting chemical and thermal properties, was obtained, justifying its recommendation for industrial applications such as high temperature–resistant concrete, asphalt binder, and asphalt mixture modification.