Mechanical properties and carbon footprint of 3D-printable cement mortars with biochar additions

Abstract

This contribution focuses on the design and the characterization of innovative mix designs of high consistency mortars with biochar additions in different percentage with respect to the cement weight. Biochar is a by-product material that gives the cementitious mix a sustainable connotation from an environmental point of view. The mix designs presented here are characterized by a good dimensional stability in the fresh state, peculiarity that gives them the possibility to be extruded and so, to be used in automated construction processes. In addition to the mechanical properties (flexural and compressive strength), the assessment of the CO2 emission of representative mixes is presented. Different biochar content and maximum diameter of the aggregate are studied, obtaining interesting indications on these parameters to optimize mechanical properties. Finally, on the basis of the CO2 emission assessment, certain venues for future research work to minimize CO2 emissions are reported.