Implementation of Biochar in the Built Environment
Biochar is a product that is produced through heating waste biomass without oxygen (pyrolysis). In MN biochar is produced from trees that are cleared to prevent forest fires. Biochar sequesters carbon, absorbs greenhouse gasses (GHGs), has low thermal conductivity, and high porosity and absorptivity. Currently, there are few existing applications of biochar as plaster, creating the question of whether local biochar would be a fitting additive or substitute in Minnesota’s climate. Building on ongoing past UROP research, this study looked into biochar recipes as a plaster, used on existing building type surfaces to further characterize the material as a feasible substitute for the current materials used. This testing evaluated the application and adherence of each biochar recipe on wall assemblies to analyze and quantify the positive benefits. After three layers of application, and ample curing times for all plaster types, it was found that adherence and curing of biochar recipes were comparable to their original recipe counterparts. Through the positive initial results of this continued study, further research can be pursued to look into more detailed characterizations of biochar as a building material, following the long-term goal of proving the potential for buildings and structures to become carbon sinks, and contributing towards achieving a carbon-negative build environment.