BIOCHARm

In Styria, wood as a raw material is already widely used in cascade applications—from material use to energy recovery. Technological advancements can now make an additional contribution to the circular economy: In addition to thermal utilization, waste materials are also being 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 in the field of 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.