Rantuch, et al (2024) Is 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 a suitable fire retardant for furfurylated wood? Composts. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2024.100454

In the realm of sustainable materials, wood has emerged as a frontrunner, favored for its aesthetic appeal and environmental friendliness. Amid growing environmental concerns, especially in construction, the exploration of wood modification techniques has intensified. Recent advancements spotlight the modification of wood using furfuryl alcohol and biochar, heralding a new era of sustainable and durable materials. This study delves into the modification of spruce wood through a novel approach: vacuum infiltration with a furfuryl alcohol solution enriched with biochar.

The investigation focuses on evaluating the suitability of spruce wood for this treatment and its effects on thermal degradation properties. Through thermogravimetric analysis, the study contrasts the thermal stability of raw wood (W), furfurylated wood (FW), and biochar-furfurylated wood bio-composite (BFW). The findings reveal a significant enhancement in the thermal stability of BFW over unmodified wood, with FW showing similar but less pronounced improvements. Notably, BFW exhibits superior fire characteristics, including a reduced effective heat of combustion and carbon monoxide yield, compared to pristine spruce wood.

This research aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change by proposing sustainable alternatives to conventional construction materials. By improving the mechanical and thermal properties of wood through biochar and furfuryl alcohol modification, the study presents a promising pathway towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector. Furthermore, the exploration of bio-based materials like biochar in enhancing fire retardancy opens new avenues for sustainable development. The successful modification of spruce wood underscores the potential of biochar-furfurylated wood composites in construction and other applications, marking a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials.