Recent Advances in X-ray Computed Tomography for Alkali-Activated Materials: A Review

Abstract

Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) have been extensively studied due to their high performance and low carbon emissions. However, the long-term durability of AAMs remains a major concern, which is closely related to their microstructures and pore networks. X-ray computed tomography (CT) has emerged as a powerful non-destructive technique for three-dimensional microstructural analysis in the field of civil engineering. While CT has been widely used to investigate cement-based materials, its application to AAMs is still limited. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the background information and applications of CT in AAM research, focusing on pore structure analysis, phase identification, degradation analysis, fiber reinforcement, temporal evolution and simulations. Furthermore, the current challenges and future perspectives are also discussed.