1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Event details: A graduate exam seminar is a presentation of the student’s final research project for their degree. This is an ALES MSc Final Exam Seminar by Zhihao Zhao. This seminar is open to the general public to attend.
MSc/PhD with Drs. Scott Chang and Doug Tomlinson
Zoom Link: https://ualberta-ca.zoom.us/j/7125115152?pwd=bGo5Z0Fwb3FYUUhVbFIybk1KT1RaQT09
Thesis Topic: Biochar Addition Affects the Performance of Portland Cement Composites: Meta-analysis and Laboratory Experiments
Abstract:
Biochar could be added to Portland cement composite to decrease the demand for Portland cement and increase the carbon sequestration in the construction. However, due to limited research, the effects of biochar addition on the performances of Portland cement composites still need to be fully understood, as well as the performance of adding different forms of biochar. This thesis used meta-analysis and laboratory experiments to enrich the understanding of these knowledge gaps. The meta-analysis found that biochar feedstock type, pyrolysis condition, pre-treatment and modifications, biochar dosage, and curing type all influenced the compressive strength of Portland cement composites. Laboratory experiments found that biochar addition could alter concrete’s performance and cement paste’s quality; however, the alteration of cement paste’s quality did not strongly correlate to concrete’s performance. Overall, the appropriate addition of biochar could partially improve concrete’s mechanical performance and durability and alter cement paste’s quality, providing valuable perspectives for future research and practices.
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