Advances in Bio-Based Materials for Construction and Energy Efficiency

1st Edition - February 26, 2025
Editors: Fernando Pacheco-Torgal, Dan Tsang
Language: English
Paperback ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 3 2 8 0 0 - 8
eBook ISBN:
9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 3 2 8 0 1 - 5

Advances in Bio-Based Materials for Construction and Energy Efficiency fills a gap in the published literature, discussing bio-based materials and biotechnologies that are crucia… Read more

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Advances in Bio-Based Materials for Construction and Energy Efficiency fills a gap in the published literature, discussing bio-based materials and biotechnologies that are crucial for a more sustainable construction industry. With comprehensive coverage and contributions from leading experts in the field, the book includes sections on bio-based materials and biotechnologies for infrastructure applications, bio-based materials and biotechnologies for building energy efficiency, and other applications, such as using biotechnology to reduce indoor air pollution, for water treatment, and in soil decontamination. The book will be an essential reference resource for academic researchers, civil engineers, contractors working in construction works, postgraduate students and other professionals.

Advances in Bio-Based Materials for Construction and Energy Efficiency
Cover image
Title page
Table of Contents
Copyright
Contributors
Chapter 1 An introductory overview of bio-based construction materials
Abstract
Keywords
1.1 Sustainability challenges, resource scarcity and the bioeconomy's path forward
1.2 The promise of biobased materials towards a sustainable construction industry
1.3 Outline of the book
References
Part I: Bio-based materials and biotechnologies for infrastructure applications
Chapter 2 Performance of asphalt mixtures with partial replacement of fossil binders by bio-based binders
Abstract
Keywords
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Biomass sources and treatments to obtain the bio materials to be used in asphalt binder
2.3 Preparation of bio based asphalt mixtures
2.4 Performances of bio based asphalt mixtures
2.4.1 High temperature performances
2.4.2 Intermediate temperature performances
2.4.3 Low temperature performances
2.4.4 Moisture damage resistance
2.4.5 Mechanical properties
2.4.6 Summary of the performance and mechanical properties of bio asphalt mixtures
2.5 Conclusions
References
Chapter 3 Nanocellulose fibers and crystals as emulsifying agents
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Cellulose
3.3 Types of nanocellulose
3.3.1 Cellulose nanocrystals
3.3.2 Cellulose nanofibers
3.3.3 Bacterial nanocellulose
3.3.4 Other types of nanocellulose
3.4 Nanocellulose production
3.4.1 Mechanical methods
3.4.2 Chemical methods
3.4.3 Biological methods
3.4.4 Optimization, control and combination
3.5 Nanocellulose Pickering ability
3.5.1 Surfactant molecules
3.5.2 Solid fine particles (Pickering emulsion)
3.6 Nanocellulose as emulsifying agent in bio-based materials for construction
3.6.1 Alternative bio-based emulsifiers for bituminous materials
3.6.2 Alternative bio-based emulsifiers for foam composites
3.7 Conclusions and future trends
References
Chapter 4 Concrete with plant-based biomass aggregates and biomass ash
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Utilization of plant-based biomass aggregates in concrete
4.2.1 Availability of plant sources as aggregates
4.2.2 Properties of biomass aggregates
4.2.3 Pre-treatment of biomass aggregates
4.2.4 Roles of biomass aggregates in concrete
4.3 Utilization of plant-based biomass ash in concrete
4.3.1 Sources of biomass ash
4.3.2 Chemical compositions of biomass ash
4.3.3 Pre-treatment of biomass ash
4.3.4 Roles of plant-based biomass ash in concrete
4.4 Cases of combined use of multiple biomass aggregates and ash in concrete
4.5 Conclusions
References
Chapter 5 Geopolymer activator using rice husk ash
Abstract
Keywords
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Rice and rice husk ash
5.3 Purification of rice husk ash
5.4 Synthesis of sodium waterglass
5.5 Fresh properties
5.6 Mechanical properties
5.7 Microstructural properties
5.8 Durability properties
5.9 Environmental effects
5.10 Summary and conclusions
References
Chapter 6 Utilization of agricultural waste-based materials in geopolymer
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Methodology
6.3 Literature analysis
6.4 Utilization of agricultural waste in geopolymer
6.4.1 Agricultural waste ash
6.4.2 Natural fiber
6.4.3 Agricultural waste aggregate
6.5 Conclusion and prospect
References
Chapter 7 Performance of concrete using bacteria and bio-fibers
Abstract
Keywords
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Bacteria
7.2.1 Bacteria and catalytic mechanisms suitable for concrete
7.2.2 Performances
7.2.3 Batch production and engineering applications
7.3 Bio-fibers
7.3.1 Sources and properties
7.3.2 Performances of natural fiber enhanced concrete
7.3.3 Challenges and strategies
7.4 Outlook
References
Chapter 8 Fire performance of hemp concrete
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Biobased concretes
8.2.1 Biobased concretes properties
8.3 Fire reaction
8.4 Fire resistance
8.4.1 Fire resistance classes and test methods
8.4.2 Fire resistance of biobased concretes
8.5 Smoldering fire
8.6 Render application
8.7 Conclusion
References
Chapter 9 Performance of cementitious composites incorporating flax fibers
Abstract
Keywords
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Biochemical composition of flax fibers
9.3 Physical and mechanical flax fibers properties
9.4 Kinetic and water absorption rate of flax fibers
9.5 Fresh state properties of flax fibers cementitious composites
9.5.1 Mixing issues
9.5.2 Workability
9.5.3 Initial setting time
9.5.4 Hydration heat
9.6 Mechanical behavior of the cementitious composites
9.6.1 Flexural behavior
9.6.2 Toughness
9.6.3 Compressive behavior
9.7 Performance enhancement
9.7.1 Fibers treatments
9.7.2 Matrix modification
9.8 Concluding remarks and future trends
References
Chapter 10 Properties and environmental performance of concrete modified with a bio-additive based on Opuntia ficus-indica
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Ancestry and properties of Opuntia ficus-indica
10.3 Hydration of polysaccharide-modified cement pastes
10.4 Workability of Ofim-modified concrete
10.5 Micro-characteristics of Ofim-modified concrete
10.5.1 Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
10.5.2 Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy
10.5.3 X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)
10.6 Mechanical properties of Ofim-modified concrete
10.7 Durability properties of Ofim-modified concrete
10.7.1 Rate of water absorption
10.7.2 Thermal conductivity (K-values)
10.7.3 Freeze-thaw resistance
10.7.4 Resistance to chemical attack
10.8 Environmental life cycle assessment
10.8.1 Goal and scope definition
10.8.2 Life cycle inventory analysis
10.8.3 Life cycle impact analysis (LCIA)
10.8.4 Environmental cost indicator (ECI)
10.9 Conclusions
10.10 Future research
References
Chapter 11 Performance of cementitious composites incorporating nanocellulose fibers
Abstract
Keywords
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Production of nanocellulose
11.2.1 Characterization of nanocellulose
11.2.2 Preparation of nanocellulose
11.2.3 Treatment processes for extraction of nanocellulose
11.3 Applications of nanocellulose in cement-based composites
11.3.1 The role of cellulosic fibers as reinforcement in cement
11.3.2 Composites reinforced by fibers randomly dispersed in the matrix
11.3.3 Composites reinforced by aligned fibers or fibrous structures
11.4 Performances of nanocellulose-modified cementitious composites
11.4.1 Workability
11.4.2 Setting time
11.4.3 Hydration characteristics
11.4.4 Pore structures
11.4.5 Compressive and flexural properties
11.4.6 Tensile properties
11.4.7 Fracture properties
11.5 Recommendations for improving performance and durability
11.5.1 Modifying the matrix
11.5.2 Modifying the fibers
11.6 Future trends
References
Chapter 12 Performance of cementitious composites based on spent coffee ground
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
12.1 Introduction
12.2 Coffee: A worldwide diffuse beverage
12.3 Reuse of coffee waste in building and construction materials: A circular economy perspective
12.4 Material and methods
12.4.1 Materials
12.4.2 Processing details
12.4.3 Materials characterization
12.5 Results and discussion
12.5.1 Macroscale functional properties of the slurry
12.5.2 Macroscale functional properties of the solid state
12.6 Energy materials for building envelope applications
12.7 Development of a prototype
12.7.1 Set up of plaster prototype and testing model
12.7.2 Temperature monitoring
12.8 Bridging research and practice_ Testing in real-world construction site
12.9 Conclusion
References
Chapter 13 LCA of wall infill made with agriculture waste
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
13.1 Introduction
13.2 LCA of envelope building materials: Main findings in recent literature
13.3 Proposal of a new material derived from urban agriculture waste
13.3.1 New material description
13.3.2 LCA of the novel material
13.4 Results and discussions
13.4.1 LCA outcomes
13.4.2 Comparison with conventional envelope materials and production prospects
13.5 Conclusions
References
Part II: Bio-based materials and biotechnologies for building energy efficiency
Chapter 14 Thermal insulating lightweight aerogels based on nanocellulose
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
14.1 Introduction
14.2 Thermal insulation material
14.2.1 Traditional thermal insulation material
14.2.2 Aerogel material for thermal insulation
14.3 Introduction to nanocellulose
14.4 Application of nanocellulose aerogel in thermal insulation field
14.4.1 Preparation of nanocellulose aerogel
14.4.2 Optimization modification of nanocellulose thermal insulation aerogel
14.4.3 Thermal insulation properties of nanocellulose aerogel
14.5 Future trends
References
Chapter 15 Thermal performance and durability of hemp shiv and recycled cardboard fibers
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Types of binder for hemp shiv
15.3 Thermal insulating materials based in hemp shiv
15.4 Recycled cardboard fiber
15.5 Manufactures process and how it influences in the properties
15.6 Enhancing hemp-based material: Addressing challenges with coating and citric acid treatment
15.6.1 Green coating
15.6.2 Crosslinking agent
15.7 Properties of the insulating hemp-based material
15.7.1 Durability of insulating panel made with hemp shiv and recycled cardboard
15.7.2 Carbon storage properties
15.8 Future trends
References
Chapter 16 Thermal performance of hemp clay walls
Abstract
Keywords
16.1 Introduction
16.2 Materials and composition
16.2.1 Properties of hemp
16.2.2 Properties of clay
16.2.3 Composition and mixing ratios
16.2.4 Additives and their effects
16.3 Thermal properties of hemp clay walls
16.3.1 Thermal conductivity
16.3.2 Thermal mass
16.3.3 Insulating properties
16.3.4 Comparative analysis with other building materials
16.4 Thermal performance testing methods
16.4.1 Laboratory testing techniques
16.4.2 In situ testing methods
16.4.3 Standards and protocols
16.5 Factors affecting thermal performance
16.6 Energy efficiency and sustainability
16.6.1 Energy efficiency
16.6.2 Environmental sustainability
16.6.3 Health benefits
16.7 Challenges and limitations
16.7.1 Technical challenges
16.7.2 Regulatory and compliance issues
16.7.3 Economic considerations
16.8 Future research directions
16.8.1 Innovative materials and composites
16.8.2 Advanced testing and simulation techniques
16.8.3 Standardization and certification
16.8.4 Sustainable building integration
16.8.5 Education and outreach
16.9 Conclusion
References
Chapter 17 Thermal performance of mortars with agricultural waste
Abstract
Keywords
17.1 Introduction
17.2 Thermal properties of mortar
17.3 Effect of the use of agricultural waste on the thermal properties of mortar
17.3.1 Hemp fiber
17.3.2 Palm fiber
17.3.3 Jute fiber
17.3.4 Straw fiber
17.3.5 Sunflower fiber
17.3.6 Olive solid waste ash
17.3.7 Rice husk ash
17.4 Conclusion
References
Chapter 18 Thermal performance and cost efficiency of hemp filled bricks
Abstract
Keywords
18.1 Introduction
18.2 Introduction to hemp and its properties
18.3 Applications of hemp in the construction and building industry
18.3.1 Hemp shiv
18.3.2 Water
18.3.3 Hemp concrete construction techniques
18.3.4 Hemp wool
18.4 Thermophysical properties of hemp-based materials
18.5 Presentation of the studied building, internal gains and occupancy scenarios
18.6 Simulation conditions and assumptions
18.6.1 Climatic conditions
18.6.2 Simulation assumptions
18.7 Dynamic thermal simulation and parametric study of the studied building
18.7.1 Impact of external wall design (thermal inertia and thermal insulation)
18.7.2 Impact of ventilation
18.7.3 The impact of double glazing
18.7.4 Comparison between configurations A and B
18.8 Economic and environmental impacts of using hemp as a biobased insulation material
18.8.1 Economic impact: Life cycle cost analysis (LCCA)
18.8.2 Environmental impact
18.9 Comparison with Moroccan thermal regulation (RTCM)
18.9.1 Performance-based approach
18.9.2 Prescriptive approach
18.10 Conclusion
References
Chapter 19 Physical characterization of two Native Chilean Macroalgae: Luga (Sarcothalia crispata) and Sargazo (Sargassum) for their use as thermal insulation material in sustainable housing
Abstract
Keywords
19.1 Introduction
19.2 Materials and methods
19.2.1 Materials
19.2.2 Moisture
19.2.3 Density
19.2.4 Thermal conductivity
19.2.5 Thermal stability
19.2.6 Surface analysis (morphology)
19.3 Results and discussion
19.3.1 Moisture
19.3.2 Density
19.3.3 Thermal conductivity
19.3.4 Thermal stability
19.3.5 Surface analysis (morphology)
19.4 Conclusions
References
Chapter 20 Optimizing passive building walls using PCMs and bio-based hygroscopic materials
Abstract
Keywords
20.1 Introduction
20.2 Materials and constructions
20.2.1 Hygroscopic materials
20.2.2 PCM used in experiment
20.2.3 Construction of experiment
20.2.4 Boundary conditions of experiment
20.3 Envelope performance
20.3.1 Hygrothermal performance
20.3.2 Energy performance
20.4 Conclusion
References
Chapter 21 Performance of dry-assembled wooden walls with bio-PCM
Abstract
Keywords
21.1 Introduction
21.2 Dry-assembled wooden wall with bio-based PCMs
21.2.1 The use of cork in the building sector
21.2.2 Dry-assembled wooden wall
21.3 Thermal characterization of the bio-based PCM dry-assembled wooden wall
21.3.1 Choice of the melting temperature
21.3.2 Methodology of the thermal characterization
21.3.3 Thermal characterization with a single PCM layer
21.3.4 Thermal characterization with double PCM layer
21.3.5 Validation of PCM numerical simulations
21.4 Energy simulations of the bio-based PCM dry-assembled wooden wall
21.4.1 Case study temporary housing unit
21.4.2 Evaluation of energy savings
21.5 Conclusions
References
Chapter 22 Innovative urban sustainability: Low-maintenance photobioreactor façades in architectural design
Abstract
Keywords
Acknowledgments
22.1 Introduction
22.2 Why incorporate microalgae cultivation in architecture?
22.2.1 Adaptability
22.2.2 Building water metabolic cycle
22.2.3 Building solar radiation control
22.2.4 CO2 capture
22.2.5 Biomass production and use as biofertilizer
22.3 ESMASA façade
22.4 Components of the PBR façade
22.5 Monitoring environmental factors and their impact on biomass production
22.6 Methods for evaluation and monitoring of microalgae cultures
22.6.1 Internal sensors
22.6.2 Microalgae culture state analyses
22.7 Conclusion
References
Index

Fernando Pacheco-Torgal

Dr. F. Pacheco-Torgal is a principal investigator at the University of Minho, in Portugal. He currently holds the title of Counsellor from the Portuguese Engineers Association and has authored more than 300 publications. He is a member of the editorial boards for 9 international journals. He has acted as a foreign expert in the evaluation of 30 PhD theses. In the last 10 years he has been a Member of the Scientific Committee for almost 60 conferences most of them in Asian countries. He is also a grant assessor for several scientific institutions in 15 countries including the UK, US, Netherlands, China, France, Australia, Kazakhstan, Belgium, Spain, Czech Republic, Chile, Saudi Arabia, UA. Emirates, Croatia, Poland, and the EU Commission. He has also been an invited reviewer for 125 international journals and has reviewed almost 1200 papers and has been the lead editor of 27 books.

Affiliations and expertise

Principal Investigator, CTAC Research Centre, University of Minho, Guimaraes, Portugal.

Dan Tsang

Prof. Tsang is the leading scientist in the fields of waste-to-resource technology, hazardous waste treatment, and carbon capture and utilization. Over the years, Dan has published more than 500 peer-reviewed papers in the top 10% journals, including 88 Highly Cited Papers as of March 2022. He was awarded as 2021-2023 Highly Cited Researcher (Clarivate Analytics) in two academic fields of Engineering as well as Environment and Ecology. He is the Chairman of the Hong Kong Waste Management Association, and the Waste Management Subcommittee of Advisory Council on the Environment, HKSAR Government. He has been invited to deliver more than 160 invited talks at international conferences and invited seminars at overseas universities. His professional contribution has been recognized by local and international communities, and he has served as the Editor-in-Chief, npj Materials Sustainability, Nature Portfolio (2023-), the Associate Editors for the top 10% journals, such as Science of the Total Environment (2018-2024), Critical Reviews in Environmental Science & Technology (2018-), Journal of Environmental Management (2022-), Journal of Hazardous Materials (2019-2021); and served as Editorial Boards for Bioresource Technology (2019-), Environmental Pollution (2019-), Chemosphere (2015-), etc.

Affiliations and expertise

Ir Professor, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, HKSAR, China Pao Yue-Kong Chair Professor, Zhejiang University, China

Life Sciences

Physical Sciences & Engineering

Social Sciences & Humanities

Health