Low carbon concrete

Biochar can be added to concrete in a number of ways. It can be mixed with the concrete ingredients before mixing, or it can be added to the concrete after mixing. Biochar can also be used to make concrete blocks and other precast concrete products.
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The amount of biochar that is added to concrete depends on the desired properties. For example, to improve the compressive strength of concrete, typically 1-5% biochar is added by weight of cement. To increase the fire resistance of concrete, typically 5-10% biochar is added by weight of cement.

Adding biochar to concrete has a number of benefits, including:

• Improved strength and durability: Biochar can improve the compressive and flexural strength of concrete, as well as its resistance to abrasion and cracking. This is because biochar particles fill the pores in concrete, making it denser and stronger.
• Reduced permeability: Biochar can reduce the permeability of concrete, making it less likely to absorb water and other liquids. This can help to protect concrete from damage caused by moisture, such as corrosion and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Increased fire resistance: Biochar can increase the fire resistance of concrete by acting as an insulator and absorbing heat. This can help to prevent concrete from cracking and spalling during a fire.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Biochar is a carbon-negative material, meaning that it absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it produces during its production. Adding biochar to concrete can help to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry.
• In addition to these benefits, adding biochar to concrete can also improve its thermal insulation properties and reduce its sound transmission.

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