Hydration Kinetics of Biochar-Enhanced Cement Composites: a mini-review

Room, Shah and Bahadori-Jahromi, Ali ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0405-7146 (2025) Hydration Kinetics of Biochar-Enhanced Cement Composites: a mini-review. Buildings, 15 (14). pp. 1-13.

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Abstract

The construction sector makes a major contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, in which cement alone produces approximately 7–8% of global CO₂ emissions. To abate environmental impact and promote sustainable construction, alternative low-carbon cementitious materials are gaining attention. Biochar (BC), a carbon-rich material obtained from biomass sources through the process of pyrolysis, has surfaced as a capable supplementary cementitious material due to its carbon capture capabilities and positive impact on the characteristics of cement composites. This review investigates the role of BC in cement composites, including its effects on hydration kinetics, microstructural development, fresh-state properties, and its optimal utilisation. The study also highlights the internal curing capabilities of BC when used in cement composites, its role in promoting hydration product formation, and its dual function in enhancing mechanical performance while facilitating carbon capture. Despite the benefits, there are some challenges such as variable BC properties, optimal dosage, and scalability. The review highlights the need for standardisation and further research to fully harness BC’s potential as a sustainable component in low-carbon construction technologies.

Item Type: Article
Identifier: 10.3390/buildings15142520
Keywords: biochar; cement composites; hydration kinetics; water retention; setting time
Depositing User: Ali Bahadori-Jahromi
Date Deposited: 22 Jul 2025 06:18
Last Modified: 22 Jul 2025 08:00
URI: https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/13899
Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 13: Climate Action

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