Biochar-Enhanced Concrete Composition for Sustainable Construction

Abstract

The present invention relates to a novel concrete composition incorporating biochar as a key additive. This biochar-enhanced concrete composition aims to improve the sustainability and performance of concrete used in construction. Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass through pyrolysis, enhances concrete's properties, including its mechanical strength, durability, and environmental footprint. The pavement engineering communities worldwide have deep concerns about the concept of sustainability. The cement concrete pavements can be constructed by replacing supplementary contentious materials (SCM). Biochar is a carbon-rich green material, a fine-grained residue obtained from the thermos-chemical conversion of waste biomass through pyrolysis or gasification. In this project, Biochar was used as a supplementary cementitious material with different percentages of 0% to 20% in preparation of concrete mixes for concrete pavements.

Specification

Description:Field of the invention Title: Biochar-Enhanced Concrete Composition for Sustainable Construction
DESCRIPTION:
Field of the Invention:
The invention pertains to the field of construction materials, specifically to concrete compositions that integrate biochar to enhance sustainability, performance, and environmental benefits.
BACKGROUND:
Concrete is a fundamental material in construction, but its production is associated with significant carbon emissions and environmental impact. Incorporating sustainable materials into concrete can mitigate these effects. Biochar, a byproduct of biomass pyrolysis, has demonstrated potential as a sustainable additive due to its carbon sequestration properties and ability to improve material performance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
DETAILED DESCRIPTION:
Composition:
The biochar-enhanced concrete composition comprises:
1. Cementitious Material: Includes Locally available Ordinary Portland Cement was used.
2. Aggregates: Fine aggregates (sand) and coarse aggregates (gravel or crushed stone) of appropriate grades and sizes.
3. Water: Clean, potable water used for mixing.
4. Biochar Additive: Biochar is derived from pyrolysis of wood waste or food waste.
Proportions:
Biochar (Wood waste-based biochar material) is incorporated into the concrete mix in proportions ranging from 1% to 20% by weight of the cementitious material. This range ensures optimal performance improvements in compressive strength of concrete.
Advantages:
1. Environmental Sustainability: Biochar enhances the sustainability of concrete by sequestering carbon and reducing the reliance on traditional cementitious materials.
2. Enhanced Properties: Concrete containing biochar exhibits improved mechanical properties such as increased compressive strength and durability. It also demonstrates better resistance to cracking and improved thermal insulation.
3. Waste Utilization: Utilizing biochar from biomass waste contributes to waste reduction and adds value to otherwise discarded materials.
4. Improved Workability: The addition of biochar can enhance the workability and ease of mixing concrete.
Applications:
The biochar-enhanced concrete composition is suitable for various construction applications, including residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. It can be used in precast concrete elements, pavements, and structural components where enhanced performance and sustainability are desired.
Conclusion:
This invention provides a significant advancement in concrete technology by integrating biochar, a sustainable and performance-enhancing material. The incorporation of biochar into concrete compositions not only supports environmental sustainability but also improves the physical properties of concrete, making it a valuable innovation in modern construction practices.
, Claims:Claim 1 (Independent Claim):
I/We Claim A biochar-enhanced concrete composition for use in sustainable construction, comprising:
a) Portland cement,
b) Fine and coarse aggregates,
c) Water, and
d) Biochar in a weight percentage ranging from 0.5% to 10% of the total weight of the cement,
wherein the biochar enhances the mechanical properties of the concrete, reduces carbon emissions, and improves overall sustainability.
Claim 2 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the biochar is derived from biomass waste materials selected from the group consisting of rice husks, coconut shells, wood chips, and agricultural residues.
Claim 3 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the biochar has a particle size of less than 100 microns, enhancing the binding properties and improving the mechanical strength of the concrete.
Claim 4 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the incorporation of biochar results in improved thermal insulation properties of the concrete.
Claim 5 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the concrete exhibits enhanced resistance to water permeability and corrosion.
Claim 6 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the biochar improves the carbonation resistance of the concrete, thereby increasing its longevity and durability.
Claim 7 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the biochar reduces the overall carbon footprint of the concrete by sequestrating carbon and contributing to sustainable construction practices.
Claim 8 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the biochar contributes to reducing the amount of Portland cement required, further reducing carbon emissions associated with cement production.
Claim 9 (Dependent Claim):
I/We Claim The biochar-enhanced concrete composition as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the use of biochar enhances the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the concrete, making it suitable for structural applications.

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