Enhancing cementitious systems with biochar derived from invasive Prosopis juliflora
Cement production significantly contributes to global CO₂ emissions, necessitating sustainable strategies that enhance performance without increasing environmental impact. This study explores the use of biochar derived from Prosopis Juliflora, an invasive plant species, as a sustainable additive in...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier
2025-09-01
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| Series: | Results in Engineering |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590123025022807 |
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| Summary: | Cement production significantly contributes to global CO₂ emissions, necessitating sustainable strategies that enhance performance without increasing environmental impact. This study explores the use of biochar derived from Prosopis Juliflora, an invasive plant species, as a sustainable additive in cement mortar. Produced through pyrolysis under limited oxygen, the biochar retained 83 % stable carbon, indicating its potential for long-term carbon sequestration. Various dosages (0, 0.05 %, 0.1 %, 0.15 %, and 0.2 % by cement weight) were tested over 90 days to assess mechanical, physical, and durability properties. The 0.1 % biochar dosage showed optimal performance, increasing compressive strength by 11.5 %, flexural strength by 21 %, and density by 3.5 %, while reducing porosity by 21 % compared to the control. XRD and carbonation tests revealed reduced calcium carbonate formation and improved carbonation resistance. Freeze-thaw tests showed enhanced durability due to reduced permeability, while thermal tests indicated that low-dose biochar acts as a dehydration promoter, and at higher dosages, as a thermal insulator. At elevated temperatures, biochar’s porous structure released internal steam, minimizing microcracking and preserving strength. Improved residual bending strength at high temperatures was attributed to the crack-bridging effect of biochar. These benefits are linked to the densification and pore refinement of the cement matrix without increasing cement content. Utilizing an invasive species adds ecological value, aligning with circular economy principles. This research highlights biochar as a promising, waste-derived alternative to conventional additives, offering a dual advantage of enhancing mortar performance and reducing the construction sector’s carbon footprint. |
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| ISSN: | 2590-1230 |