Jafari & Sadeghian (2024) 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 and recycled gypsum drywall in concrete: role and effects on compressive behavior, microstructure, and carbon footprint. Journal of Sustainable Cement-Based Materials. https://doi.org/10.1080/21650373.2024.2428987

Researchers have investigated the impact of biochar and recycled gypsum drywall (RGD) on the strength and structure of conventional and high-volume 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 concrete (HVFC). Testing 60 concrete cylinders revealed complex interactions between these materials and concrete properties.

Biochar, a carbon-rich material, increased the 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 of concrete. However, its overall effect depended on factors like pore interconnectivity, water retention, and the characteristics of the concrete binders. One key finding was that water retained by biochar (BRW) accelerated the hydration of cement compounds like C3S, forming calcium carbonate and calcium aluminate silicate hydrate in biochar pores. This process enhanced the early strength of the concrete.

In HVFC, BRW also accelerated reactions in RGD and activated fly ash, improving performance at an early stage. Despite these benefits, biochar’s long-term impact was less favorable. Its high porosity and potential for material degradation weakened concrete over time, reducing its elastic modulus.

On a positive note, biochar improved the concrete’s ductility, particularly in HVFC containing RGD. Additionally, using biochar helped lower the carbon footprint of the concrete, making it a more sustainable option.

This research highlights both the opportunities and challenges of incorporating biochar and RGD into concrete, offering insights for developing more sustainable construction materials. While biochar shows promise, careful optimization is essential to balance strength, durability, and environmental benefits.