The Effect of Different Biochar on the Mechanical Properties of Cement-Pastes and Mortars

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a concerning surge in CO2 emissions, with the construction and materials production sectors standing out as significant contributors to greenhouse gas pollution. To tackle this pressing environmental challenge, architectural design and civil engineering are actively pursuing strategies to mitigate their carbon footprint. These initiatives include adopting eco-friendly construction materials with reduced toxicity, rigorous energy management practices across the entire life cycle of structures, and incorporating innovative materials like biochar. Biochar is a carbon-rich byproduct generated through controlled thermochemical processes, such as pyrolysis or gasification, that stands out for its remarkable capacity to extract energy from processed biomass while delivering substantial environmental advantages. This study examines the use of biochar as a filler in cement-paste and mortar, as well as its influence on mechanical properties. In the case of cementitious pastes, results show that small amounts of biochar (1-2-5% by weight of cement) can improve the compressive and flexural strength, as well as fracture energy, thus generating a more tortuous crack path that increases the final surface area. In mortar specimens, the biochar influence does not show similar patterns or characteristics as the cement-paste in flexural and compressive strengths; nevertheless, biochar particles improve the toughness.