Biochar-based concrete as biocompatible building material for marine artificial structures

Area of Science:

• Marine Ecology
• Materials Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Increasing human activities in marine environments necessitate sustainable artificial structures.
• Biochar concrete offers potential for waste recycling, carbon storage, and reduced environmental impact.
• Limited data exists on the ecotoxicological effects of biochar concrete on marine biota.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the biological suitability of biochar-based concrete for marine applications.
• To assess the impact of biochar concrete on marine organisms and benthic assemblages.
• To determine if biochar concrete affects microfouling and macrobenthic colonization.

Main Methods:

• Laboratory ecotoxicological tests on target marine organisms.
• Field experiments using manipulative setups in three Mediterranean sites.
• Monitoring of micro- and macrobenthic assemblages on submerged biochar concrete over six months.

Main Results:

• No significant ecotoxicological responses were observed in marine organisms exposed to biochar.
• Biochar concrete (up to 10% wt.) did not alter early microfouling or macrobenthic assemblage structure.
• Total biomass of macrobenthic assemblages remained unaffected by biochar addition in concrete.

Conclusions:

• Biochar-based concrete appears biologically suitable for marine construction.
• The use of biochar concrete can contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of artificial marine structures.
• Further research in diverse habitats and with different biochar types is recommended for broader conclusions.