Wood-Based Micro-Biochars in a Cement Mixture

Immediate action is required to achieve carbon neutrality within the cement industry. The integration of biochar into cement as a component of reinforced concrete has potential to mitigate carbon emissions in the construction sector by enabling carbon sequestration. In pursuit of eco-friendly practices and improved physical properties of cement composites, this study investigated the properties of wood-based, micron-sized biochar as a non-carbonate raw material, including its chemical composition, morphology, and wettability. The characterization of lignocellulosic micro-biochar and its mechanical impact on cement composites was a focus of this study. Cement was partially replaced with varying weight percentages of micro-biochar (1, 3, and 5 wt%), and the effects were evaluated through compressive strength tests after 7 and 28 d. The results demonstrated that the micro-biochar could sustain strength even when substituted for cement. Notably, after 28 d, the compressive strength of the sample with only cement was 29.6 MPa, while the sample with 3 wt% biochar substitution showed 30.9 MPa, indicating a 4.4% increase. This research contributes to sustainable construction practices by offering a green solution for reducing carbon emissions in the industry.