Influence of Soil on the Mechanical, Physical, and Environmental Properties of Wood Bio-concrete Blocks
摘要
The construction sector is a significant contributor to environmental impacts, like climate change and natural resource consumption, driving the search for more sustainable solutions. In this context, this study aimed to produce and characterize physically, mechanically, and environmentally solid blocks of pressed wood bio-concretes by partially replacing cement (CP V-ARI) with 50% and 70% of soil. All mixtures had a fixed volume fraction of wood shavings of 60%. The effect of that replacement was investigated through uniaxial compression and capillarity water absorption. A cradle-to-gate carbon-oriented life cycle assessment was conducted considering all materials and processes involved in the production of the mixtures, with a specific methodology for biogenic carbon accounting. The results indicated that partially replacing cement with soil reduced the density of the blocks compared to the reference block. Regarding compressive strength at 28 days, the block with 50% soil achieved 3.51 MPa, while the block with 70% soil reached 2.31 MPa, making both suitable for non-load-bearing masonry. The reference block, on the other hand, achieved a compressive strength of 6.45 MPa, qualifying it for use in structural masonry. Blocks containing 70% of soil exhibited a higher capillarity water absorption rate than those without soil. Concerning the LCA, wood shavings biogenic carbon was the main contributor to lower emissions due to high biomass content.