Lu, et al (2024) Waste coffee 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 bi-oil composite modified rejuvenated asphalt: Preparation, characterization, and performance evaluation. Construction and Building Materials. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2024.138588

A recent study published in Construction and Building Materials explores an innovative method of using biochar from waste coffee grounds to enhance the performance of rejuvenated asphalt. Asphalt, which deteriorates over time due to environmental factors, can be rejuvenated using bio-oil. However, bio-oil alone lacks stability and durability, especially at high temperatures. This research addresses these shortcomings by blending bio-oil with coffee biochar.

The study employed advanced characterization techniques like X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy to analyze the biochar’s properties, revealing its porous structure, which enhances the interaction with asphalt. The team conducted various performance tests, including low-temperature crack resistance and high-temperature rutting resistance.

Results showed that adding 6% biochar, in a 1:1 ratio with bio-oil, significantly improved the rejuvenated asphalt’s resistance to aging and deformation. Additionally, this combination showed comparable performance to original asphalt, making it a promising solution for sustainable road construction.

By repurposing coffee waste, this approach supports circular economy goals and reduces reliance on petroleum-based materials. The findings highlight the potential of biochar-bio-oil composites to improve infrastructure durability while contributing to waste reduction and environmental sustainability.