Kang, et al (2024) Utilization of biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More as a green additive in supersulfated cement: Properties, mechanisms, and environmental impacts. Construction and Building Materials. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2024.137923

Biochar, a byproduct of 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 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, is gaining attention as a sustainable additive for supersulfated cement (SSC), a low-carbon alternative to traditional Portland cement. A recent study explores the use of coconut-based biochar in SSC, incorporating desulfurized gypsum (FGDG) as a sulfate activator, to enhance both material properties and environmental performance.

The study finds that adding 2% biochar improves the mechanical properties of SSC. Specifically, the 28-day compressive and flexural strengths increase by 10.3% and 19.1%, respectively. Additionally, biochar enhances cement hydration and increases heat release during the hydration process. However, it reduces the fluidity of the composite by 12.5% and slightly increases harmful pore ratios within the material.

On the environmental side, biochar incorporation lowers SSC’s greenhouse gas emissions by 22.5% compared to traditional Portland cement. SSC, already known for its lower carbon footprint due to its minimal clinker content and the use of byproducts like ground granulated blast furnace slag, becomes even more sustainable with biochar. Despite the improved environmental benefits, the study notes a potential rise in production costs due to biochar’s inclusion.

Overall, biochar proves to be an effective additive for SSC, contributing to stronger material performance and lower environmental impact. This research underscores its potential to further reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry, although cost considerations remain a factor for large-scale adoption.