Year: 2025
Type: review
Abstract: The construction sector makes a major contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, in which cement alone produces approximately 7–8% of global CO2 emissions. To abate environmental impact and promote sustainable construction, alternative low-carbon cementitious materials are gaining attention. Biochar (BC), a carbon-rich material obtained from biomass sources through the process of pyrolysis, has surfaced as a capable supplementary cementitious material due to its carbon capture capabilities and positive impact on the characteristics of cement composites. This review investigates the role of BC in cement composites, including its effects on hydration kinetics, microstructural development, fresh-state properties, and its optimal utilisation. The study also highlights the internal curing capabilities of BC when used in cement composites, its role in promoting hydration product formation, and its dual function in enhancing mechanical performance while facilitating carbon capture. Despite the benefits, there are some challenges such as variable BC properties, optimal dosage, and scalability. The review highlights the need for standardisation and further research to fully harness BC’s potential as a sustainable component in low-carbon construction technologies.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Shah Room, Ali Bahadori-Jahromi
Institution: University of West London
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
OpenAlex ID: W4413062445