Influence of pyrolysis parameters on the efficiency of the biochar as nanoparticles into cement-based composites

In this research, a particular kind of biochar provided by UK Biochar Centre has been added as nanoparticles into cementitious composites. Its principle characteristic lies in the standardization of its process production, that makes it suitable to been used as filler in cement-matrix composites, ensuring the reproducibility of the cement mix (I. Cosentino "The use of Bio-char for sustainable and durable concrete", 2017). The pyrolysis parameters and the content of carbon in the standardized biochar influenced its efficiency to enhance the mechanical properties of the cement composites: the results, in terms of flexural strength and fracture energy, have been worse than those obtained in previous studies (L. Restuccia "Re-think, Re-use: agro-food and C&D waste for high-performance sustainable cementitious composites", 2016), in which particles have been produced with higher temperature. However, also with standardized biochar a general enhancement of mechanical properties has been recorded, a sign that they can be used to create new green building materials. (C) 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. Peer-review under responsibility of the ECF22 organizers.