Lantana Camara Plant-Biochar Added Cementitious Mortar for Carbon Sequestration: Effect on Early-Age Properties

Abstract

Present study deals with the use of nano/micro sized particles acquired through pyrolysis of biomass. Lantana Camara (plant) was transformed into Biochar, which was further reduced to nano/micro size by ball milling. Biochar was produced by pyrolysis at 550°C in an inert environment. The biochar was added to cementitious mortar mixes in quantities of 0, 0.05, and 0.1% by weight of cement. Early age properties were examined and compared with those of the control specimens. The results showed reduction in density, compressive strength and consistency and an increase in setting time, and flexural strength. It is concluded that the addition of the biochar of Lantana Camara enhances the performance of the cementitious mortars in some parameters. Hence, green, and more performing cementitious products can be manufactured by adding the biochar of the waste plant. This will also add to Carbon sequestration, which is a global point of concern.