BIOCHARm

Wood, as a raw material, is already widely used in Styria for cascade use – from material use to energy recovery. Technological advancements can now make an additional contribution to the circular economy: In addition to thermal use, waste materials can also be used to produce a new, usable raw material – biochar.

Biochar opens up application possibilities in areas where renewable raw materials (NAWAROs) reach their functional or structural limitations. While NAWAROs are already successfully used in many areas of construction, they are only of limited use for structures that are in permanent contact with moisture or soil. Biochar, on the other hand, is resistant to biogenic degradation. This opens up potential for use in components in contact with the ground, in drainage technology, and in earth construction. Its use can thus contribute to the longevity of components and meaningfully expand the range of materials used in sustainable construction.

Led by Graz University of Technology, the Styrian Wood Cluster is part of an interdisciplinary team of research institutions, equipment manufacturers, and users focused on the development and application of biochar-based building materials. This collaboration enables the practical development and testing of new applications in the field of bio-based building materials.