Strength And Sustainability Assessment of Biochar-Steel Reinforced Concrete

Vighnesh R1, Haritha R2, Jeseel I3, Neethu R4, Anjali Nair5
Civil Engineering Department, Bishop Jerome Institute

Abstract - There is a pressing need for sustainable alternatives in the manufacturing of concrete because the cement sector is one of the main sources of carbon dioxide emissions worldwide. Through the partial substitution of biochar for cement at weight percentages of 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%, as well as the addition of 1% crimped steel fibres to improve mechanical properties, this study examines the strength and sustainability performance of biochar steel fibre reinforced concrete (BSFRC).In order to identify the ideal replacement level, the experimental program assesses compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength at various curing times. A cradle-to-gate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach is used to evaluate environmental performance. Embodied carbon and global warming potential (GWP) are quantified using an emission factor-based method. Each mix's carbon footprint is determined by taking into account the steps of raw material extraction, processing, and transportation. According to the results, adding crimped steel fibres enhances tensile and flexural performance and makes up for any potential strength losses, while adding biochar lowers cement usage and embodied carbon emissions. The 4% biochar replacement mix exhibits the best balance between mechanical strength and carbon reduction among the mixes examined. According to the study, biochar-based steel fibre reinforced concrete has the potential to be a sustainable building material that lowers carbon emissions and improves performance.

Key Words: Biochar; Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete; Carbon Footprint; Cradle-to-Gate Life Cycle Assessment; Embodied Carbon; Sustainable Concrete; Compressive Strength; Global Warming Potential (GWP); Cement Replacement; Low-Carbon Construction Materials.