Mechanical characterization of cement-based materials containing biochar from gasification

Abstract This study focuses on the influence of biochar – a solid, porous, carbonaceous material product resulting from biomass gasification of wood waste – on mechanical properties of cement mortars. In order to investigate its effectiveness for structural purposes, biochar is added in cement mortar in increasing percentages, up to 2.5% by weight of cement. Experimental findings show that, by including a proper biochar percentage, compressive and flexural strengths comparable to those of control specimens are obtained, with a slight increase in fracture energy. The use of biochar in building materials as carbon sink is also part of a strategy for the development of more sustainable materials within the construction industry, since the dual aim of storing carbon in a stable form in buildings and promoting waste reutilization by increasing the recycling rate could be achieved.