Transforming Waste into Strength: World-First Coffee Concrete Footpath Trial

Brief

Discover the groundbreaking use of coffee biochar in concrete, enhancing strength and sustainability in construction.

Insight

Researchers from RMIT University have collaborated with Macedon Ranges Shire Council to conduct a pioneering trial using coffee biochar in concrete footpaths. This innovative project aims to repurpose spent coffee grounds, which contribute significantly to landfill waste, by transforming them into biochar that strengthens concrete by up to 30%. The process involves converting organic waste into biochar at 350 degrees Celsius, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete components like sand.

The trial, part of a broader initiative with civil infrastructure company BildGroup, explores the use of coffee and wood-chip biochar in concrete across various infrastructure projects in Victoria, Australia. This approach not only addresses the environmental issue of organic waste in landfills but also mitigates the global shortage of sand, a critical component in concrete production.

Australia alone produces 75 million kilograms of coffee waste annually, with the potential to replace substantial amounts of sand in concrete. On a global scale, 10 billion kilograms of coffee waste could replace up to 90 billion kilograms of sand, highlighting the significant environmental and economic benefits.

Shane Walden, Director of Assets and Operations at Macedon Ranges Shire Council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and collaboration with academic institutions like RMIT. The ongoing trials in Gisborne will evaluate the performance of these biochar-enhanced footpaths, aiming to integrate this eco-friendly solution into commercial construction.

Dr. Rajeev Roychand from RMIT’s School of Engineering notes the potential for cost savings in construction by reducing cement content without compromising concrete strength. The team’s research also extends beyond coffee to various organic wastes, each offering unique benefits to concrete performance. This trial marks a significant step towards a circular economy and sustainable construction practices.

Highlight

This innovative project aims to repurpose spent coffee grounds, which contribute significantly to landfill waste, by transforming them into biochar that strengthens concrete by up to 30%.
The process involves converting organic waste into biochar at 350 degrees Celsius, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete components like sand.
This approach not only addresses the environmental issue of organic waste in landfills but also mitigates the global shortage of sand, a critical component in concrete production.