Enhancing the hygrothermal performance of corn cob residue-based eco-friendly building materials through biochar and microencapsulated phase change material incorporation

Abstract

Amid mounting environmental concerns and the relentless advance of climate change, this study delves into the potential of biochar derived from corn cob waste to enhance the hygrothermal performance of bio-based building materials. Focused on eco-conscious construction, the research explores the integration of biochar and phase change materials (PCMs) to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency. Results show that adding biochar at 5 % and 10 % ratios increases surface area and porosity, enhancing PCM loading and energy storage. Biochar also improves thermal stability by approximately 13.3 %, delaying PCM oxidation and boosting resilience. The addition of 10 % corncob biochar yields optimal heat capacity and energy storage. Furthermore, biochar increases the water vapor resistance coefficient by 84.57 % compared to materials without biochar. Although there is a slight decline in thermal conductivity across different humidity levels, attributed to the enhanced water vapor resistance coefficient, the overall insulation performance remains robust. In summary, this study demonstrates the enhanced hygrothermal potential of biochar derived from bio-waste and exhibits high compatibility with phase change materials, contributing to sustainable building.