Agricultural waste biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More, a byproduct of the agricultural industry, poses significant challenges for waste management due to its environmental and health impacts. PyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More, a process of decomposing organic material at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, converts this biomass into biochar (BC), which has high porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More, water retention, and alkalinity. Traditionally used for soil enhancement, biochar is gaining interest for its potential in sustainable construction materials. This systematic literature review explores biochar’s role in enhancing geopolymers (GP) and alkali-activated materials (AAM), offering a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete.

Geopolymers and AAMs, which do not rely on Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), are noted for their durability, mechanical properties, and lower environmental impact. They utilize industrial byproducts like fly ashAsh is the non-combustible inorganic residue that remains after organic matter, like wood or biomass, is completely burned. It consists mainly of minerals and is different from biochar, which is produced through incomplete combustion.   Ash Ash is the residue that remains after the complete More and slag, thus reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Integrating biochar into these materials can further enhance their properties. For instance, biochar’s high surface area and porosity improve the mechanical strength, durability, and thermal insulation of concrete composites, making them suitable for energy-efficient construction.

However, several challenges need to be addressed to fully leverage biochar’s benefits. These include the variability in biochar properties due to different feedstocks and pyrolysis conditionsThe conditions under which pyrolysis takes place, such as temperature, heating rate, and residence time, can significantly affect the properties of the biochar produced.   More, the need for standardized guidelines, and understanding biochar’s long-term performance in construction materials. Additionally, optimizing biochar’s particle size, surface area, and chemical composition is crucial for its effective integration into geopolymers and AAMs.

Overcoming these challenges through targeted research and collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers will be key to advancing the use of biochar in sustainable construction. This review provides a foundational understanding of biochar’s potential in this domain, highlighting the need for further studies to explore innovative mix designs and applications in environmental remediation and carbon sequestration .