Evaluation of the properties of a foamed geopolymer developed with different types of metakaolin

The physical and mechanical properties of foamed geopolymers were determined. made with two different metakaolins (from Metacaulim do Brasil - MB, Pantano Grande/RS MPG) as precursors, NaOH Na2SiO3 activators, the addition foam, which was produced foaming agent diethanolamide coconut fatty acid a minimum 80% concentration. Also, times (2.5 4 h) used for calcination MPG at 750 °C. results showed that all factors (precursors type, alkali content, silica modulus, foam content) had significant influence on response variables, presented following variations: compressive strength 0.36 to 3.23 MPa; thermal conductivity from 0.22 0.42 W/(m.K); saturated bulk density 1176 1364 kg/m3; dry 619 864 air void 46.4% 62.5%; water absorption 55.7% 95.4%. It also concluded precursor type factor most geopolymers, calcined h being best, greater low obtained.