Decarbonizing with Charcrete
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: This paper investigates the decarbonisation potential of biochar when incorporated into cementitious composites (CharCretes).Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from the pyrolysis of organic waste, offers significant carbon-sequestering properties that vary depending on the biomass source, pyrolysis conditions, and posttreatment. A literature review identifies the biochars with the highest carbon sequestration potential, establishing them as optimal for use in CharCretes with negative embodied carbon. The study further explores the mechanical properties of biochar-infused composites, examining water content, density, compressive strength, and flexural strength to assess both structural and non-structural applications. The findings demonstrate that CharCretes, formulated with varying biochar concentrations, not only reduce embodied carbon but also exhibit notable changes in density and mechanical performance. By setting up a comprehensive framework for testing these properties, the research offers a pathway for integrating CharCrete into building practices, addressing both environmental sustainability and material performance. This work contributes to the understanding of biochar’s role in the construction sector's decarbonisation efforts and paves the way for future studies on its applications.
Author: Kirova, Nikol
Institution: Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7172285313