Geomaterials

Geomaterials account for the majority of all goods consumed by humankind due to their extensive application in the construction of buildings and the execution of civil and geotechnical works, as well as in environmental engineering projects. They may retain their primary characteristics (ornamental rocks, stone aggregates, clay barriers, compacted soils, etc.) or be artificially manufactured from natural raw materials or waste-derived resources (cement, concrete, ceramics, expanded lightweight aggregates, geopolymers, mineral wool, etc.).

The continuous growth in population and demand for natural resources highlights the need to further advance the study of geomaterials, adapting them to current societal challenges while enhancing their technological, environmental and economic performance. In this context, sustainable production, waste valorization and circular economy strategies are becoming increasingly invaluable. Consequently, geomaterials have been, are, and will continue to be strategic assets with a profound socio-economic and environmental impact. This Special Issue brings together a collection of articles presenting the latest advances in geomaterials research, with particular emphasis on sustainable construction materials, innovative engineering applications and resource efficiency. The contributions not only expand current knowledge but also provide new perspectives for the future development of geomaterials, including emerging concepts such as technite, which highlights the long-term geological significance and circular potential of human-made lithic materials.