This discovery could revolutionize the concrete industry, potentially leading to more durable, sustainable, and cost-effective construction materials. The study, published in the Journal of Materials Science, investigated the impact of adding charred coffee grounds to concrete mixtures. The researchers found that incorporating these grounds into the mix resulted in a significant increase in the compressive strength of the concrete.

The global construction industry is experiencing a boom, driven by factors like urbanization, infrastructure development, and population growth. This boom has led to a surge in demand for concrete, a versatile and durable building material. However, this increased demand has also resulted in a significant increase in the use of resources, leading to environmental concerns. **Detailed Text:**

The global construction industry is witnessing a remarkable surge, fueled by a confluence of factors.

Pyrolysis breaks down organic materials into smaller, more stable molecules, effectively removing the harmful chemicals. The team then used a specialized machine to grind the resulting charcoal-like material into a fine powder. This powder was mixed with cement and water to create a new, sustainable concrete.

The team is also working on creating biochars from other organic waste sources, including wood, food waste and agricultural waste. “Our research is in the early stages, but these exciting findings offer an innovative way to greatly reduce the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill,” said RMIT engineer Shannon Kilmartin-Lynch. “Inspiration for my research, from an Indigenous perspective, involves Caring for Country, ensuring there’s a sustainable life cycle for all materials and avoiding things going into landfill to minimize the impact on the environment.” Their research was published in the Journal of Cleaner Production. An earlier version of this article was published in September 2023.

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