Beskoplny, et al (2024) Performance Assessment of a Novel Green Concrete Using Coffee Grounds 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 Waste. Recycling. https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling9050094

A recent study explores a new sustainable construction material by integrating biochar from spent coffee grounds (BSCG) into concrete. This novel approach seeks to address environmental concerns by reusing organic waste while improving concrete performance.

The researchers created biochar by pyrolyzing coffee grounds, which resulted in a porous, carbon-rich material. When added to concrete mixtures, this biochar filler modified the cement paste’s structure and enhanced its properties. The study found that the optimal BSCG content should not exceed 8% for concrete mixtures. At 4%, concrete exhibited a 5.85% increase in compressive strength and a 6.58% reduction in water absorption. Beyond this ratio, the biochar increased water demand and reduced workability due to its porous nature.

For cement pastes, the ideal BSCG content was determined to be 3%, improving both compressive and flexural strength. The biochar acted as a filler, promoting a denser cement matrix and enhancing the material’s durability.

The study concludes that BSCG can effectively be used in concrete production, offering a dual benefit: reducing environmental waste and improving concrete properties. This green concrete presents a promising step towards sustainable construction, utilizing readily available coffee waste to reduce the carbon footprint of traditional building materials. Further research is planned to assess long-term durability factors such as frost resistance and shrinkage.