Advancing Eco-Friendly Construction: The Role of Biomass and Waste Integration

The construction industry significantly influences our built environment but is also responsible for considerable environmental impacts due to its extensive use of natural resources. Among effective strategies to mitigate these effects, incorporating industrial solid waste into construction materials presents a promising approach to substantially reduce the reliance on virgin materials and energy. Additionally, the integration of biomass materials provides further potential to enhance both the environmental credentials and performance of construction materials. Recent advancements have highlighted the versatility of industrial waste, such as fly ash, slag, and waste foundry sand, in improving the strength, durability, and thermal properties of construction products. Similarly, sludge-based landfill cover materials have demonstrated promising durability and safety metrics. Cement-free binders developed using incineration residues emerge as sustainable alternatives, significantly lowering CO₂ emissions. However, to achieve broader acceptance and application, there remains a need to optimize and standardize these processes.

This Research Topic aims to explore the innovative application of industrial solid waste and biomass in creating high-performance, sustainable construction materials. Specifically, the goal is to investigate how these materials can be utilized to lower environmental footprints while enhancing strength, workability, and durability. By focusing on how biomass additives like algae and mycelium could further improve material properties and reduce greenhouse gases, this research endeavors to provide compelling evidence to support broader adoption of such methodologies in modern construction.

To further understand how innovative materials can revolutionize construction practices, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Techniques for integrating biomass and industrial waste into construction materials

• Evaluation of the environmental benefits of biomass-enhanced materials

• New methods for improving the performance and durability of waste-based building products