In recent years, the construction industry’s requirements for sustainable development have continued to increase. Therefore, the application of innovative eco-friendly materials is becoming an industry trend. Biochar is a solid carbonaceous material produced by pyrolysis of biomass. It has significant effects in improving soil health and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In the construction industry, biochar applications have broad potential. It promotes environmental protection while improving the performance of building materials.
Basic Concept of Biochar
Biochar is a carbonaceous material produced by processing biomass such as wood, crop residues, and food processing residues through biomass pyrolysis equipment. The process involves the thermal decomposition of organic matter under high temperature and low oxygen conditions. Biochar has a stable carbon structure, high specific surface area and porosity. Recently, the application areas of biochar have gradually expanded, especially in the construction industry, and the potential of biochar is receiving widespread attention.
Biochar’s Application Scenarios in Construction Industry
Road Construction Materials
By mixing biochar into roadbed materials, the compactness and compressive resistance of the soil can be improved. Thus, this enhances the stability of the roadbed. In addition, the mixing of biochar into roadbed materials allows the road to form a strong surface that is resistant to weather and traffic. In addition, biochar can also improve the drainage performance of road materials. Therefore, this reduces road damage caused by moisture accumulation.
Building Materials
Adding biochar to concrete can increase the compressive strength and durability of concrete while reducing its weight. The porous structure of biochar helps to improve the thermal insulation and sound insulation of concrete. Not only that, in brick production, the addition of biochar can improve the thermal stability and weather resistance of bricks. At the same time, this also reduces the environmental impact of the production process.
Insulation Materials
Due to its extremely low thermal conductivity and water absorption capacity, biochar helps in building insulation and humidity regulation. By mixing biochar with various materials, it can be used as a plaster, wall tile and concrete additive. This gives interior walls excellent thermal insulation and breathability. In addition, by effectively reducing the thermal conductivity of building materials, the energy efficiency of the building is improved.
Biochar Reduces Construction Industry’s Carbon Footprint
Carbon Sequestration
The use of biochar in building materials reduces atmospheric CO2 concentrations by storing carbon for a long time. The carbon in biochar remains stable in building materials for a long time. This reduces the carbon released during the production of traditional building materials. By using biochar extensively in buildings, the overall carbon footprint of a building can be significantly reduced. During demolition, biochar-derived building materials can be directly added to compost, ensuring the natural continuation of the carbon cycle.
Improved Energy Efficiency
The use of biochar in building materials improves the energy efficiency of buildings. Its good thermal insulation properties reduce the need for external energy sources. This reduces the energy consumption required for heating and cooling. This energy saving effect not only helps to reduce the operational carbon footprint of a building, but also reduces energy bills. By reducing the energy consumption of a building, biochar continues to play a role in reducing carbon emissions during the use of the building.
Future of Biochar in Construction Industry
Biochar provides important support for achieving sustainable construction and green environmental protection goals. With the advancement of technology and the reduction of production costs, biochar is expected to be more widely used in the construction industry. Thus, biochar contributes to promoting the low-carbon transformation of the construction industry.
