Scientists create stronger concrete that absorbs CO2 from the air

Researchers from Mepco Schlenk Engineering College in India replaced part of the fine aggregate with zeolite and part of the cement with bamboo biochar. The best mix ZB5 (50% zeolite and 1% biochar) showed compressive strength of 38.49 MPa — 7.48% higher than ordinary concrete — and absorbed 1.2 g of CO2 per day.

• Mix ZB5: 50% zeolite instead of fine aggregate and 1% bamboo biochar instead of cement
• Compressive strength 38.49 MPa — 7.48% above standard mix
• Splitting tensile strength rose 15% to 4.39 MPa
• In carbonation chamber concrete absorbed 1.2 g CO2 per day, carbonation reached 15 mm in 7 days