Kansas State researchers developing green concrete from biofuel byproducts

March 18, 2013 |

In Kansas, Kansas State University civil engineers are developing the right mix to reduce concrete’s carbon footprint and make it stronger. Their innovative ingredient: biofuel byproducts. To reduce carbon dioxide emissions from concrete production, the researchers are studying environmentally friendly materials that can replace part of the portland cement used in concrete. They are finding success using the byproducts of biofuels made from corn stover, wheat straw and rice straw. The researchers are specifically looking at byproducts from production of cellulosic ethanol, which is biofuel produced from inedible material such as wood chips, wheat straw or other agricultural residue. Cellulosic ethanol is different from traditional bioethanol, which uses corn and grain to make biofuel. Corn ethanol’s byproduct — called distiller’s dried grains — can be used as cattle feed, but cellulosic ethanol’s byproduct — called high-lignin residue — is often perceived as less valuable.

Category: Research

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