National Concrete Pavement Technology Center

Project description

This project seeks to advance sustainable concrete technology by investigating black carbon and biochar as cement replacements in the production of carbon-neutral concrete. These materials, known for their carbon sequestration potential, will be incorporated into concrete mixes, with a focus on optimizing compressive strength, workability, and durability, particularly surface resistivity. Additionally, nano silica derived from sugarcane bagasse ash will be added to enhance these properties, as black carbon and biochar alone may negatively impact concrete’s mechanical performance. This integration of Sugarcane Bagasse Ash (SCBA)-derived nano silica with black carbon aims to create a viable low-carbon concrete mix that meets both structural and environmental performance standards. Therefore, the objectives of the proposed study are to : (1) Develop concrete mixes incorporating black carbon, biochar, and nano silica from SCBA; (2) Assess the fresh properties and compressive strength of the developed concrete mixes; (3) Evaluate the durability of the concrete mixes through surface resistivity testing, and (4) Perform a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for the most promising mixes. The project will employ a comprehensive research approach, including detailed material characterization, mix design optimization, and durability testing. Material characterization will involve advanced techniques, namely Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and X-Ray Diffraction, to analyze the structural properties of nano silica, black carbon, and biochar. The concrete mixes will undergo standard workability, compressive strength, and surface resistivity testing to ensure optimal mechanical and durability properties. Finally, a Life Cycle Assessment and Environmental Product Declarations will be performed on the best-performing mix to assess environmental impacts. The tasks for this study involve the following: Task 1: Literature Review and Material Acquisition; Task 2: Quality Assessment of Biochar and Black Carbon for Concrete; Task 3: Nano silica Synthesis; Task 4: Mix Design and Optimization; Task 5: Mechanical Testing; Task 6: Durability Testing; Task 7: LCA and EPD Analysis; Task 8: Analysis and Reporting of Results, and Task 9: Relative Importance.