Pub Date : 2026-01-06DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100368
Yantong Zhao , Chunyang Cui , Fuqiang Gao , Qingxin Qi , Zeyu Liu , Xiang Ma , Xi Jiang
Lithium slag (LS) demonstrates synergistic reactivity and element complementarity in cement systems. However, LS exhibits low pozzolanic reactivity when blended with ordinary Portland cement (PC). This study designed a new kind of cleaner cementitious material via solid-waste and low-alkalinity activation. Four possible low-alkali activators were investigated: calcium aluminate (CA), sodium aluminosilicate (SS), sodium carbonate (SC), and sodium aluminate (SA), as well as their combinations for activating high-volume lithium slag cement (HVLSC) via microstructural evolution. Results indicate that the SS–SA considerably enhances C–(A)–S–H and N–A–S–H co-gel formation and promotes ettringite (AFt) nucleation, increasing compressive strength by 306 %, 123 %, and 108 % after 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively. The SC activator reduces fluidity in SC systems because CO32− induces CaCO3 precipitation. The SS–SA exhibits the best strength enhancing effect by leveraging the synergy of the Na+–SiO32−–AlO2− ternary system. This synergy optimizes the density of the gel network and considerably enhances the strength of HVLSC and reduces CO2 emissions per unit strength by 52.2 % of the carbon dioxide emission per unit strength.
锂渣（LS）在水泥体系中表现出协同反应性和元素互补性。与普通硅酸盐水泥（PC）混合后，LS表现出较低的火山灰反应性。本研究设计了一种采用固废低碱度活化的新型清洁胶凝材料。研究了四种可能的低碱活化剂：铝酸钙（CA）、铝硅酸钠（SS）、碳酸钠（SC）和铝酸钠（SA），以及它们通过微观结构演化对高容量锂渣水泥（HVLSC）的活化作用。结果表明，SS-SA显著增强了C - (A) - s - h和N-A-S-H共凝胶的形成，促进钙矾石（AFt）成核，在7、14和21天后，抗压强度分别提高了306%、123%和108%。由于CO32−诱导CaCO3沉淀，SC活化剂降低了SC体系的流动性。利用Na+ -SiO32−-AlO2−三元体系的协同作用，SS-SA表现出最佳的强度增强效果。这种协同作用优化了凝胶网络的密度，大大提高了HVLSC的强度，并将单位强度的二氧化碳排放量降低了52.2%。
{"title":"Alkali–silicate–aluminate synergistic hydration mechanisms for enhanced strength development in high-volume lithium slag cement","authors":"Yantong Zhao , Chunyang Cui , Fuqiang Gao , Qingxin Qi , Zeyu Liu , Xiang Ma , Xi Jiang","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100368","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100368","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lithium slag (LS) demonstrates synergistic reactivity and element complementarity in cement systems. However, LS exhibits low pozzolanic reactivity when blended with ordinary Portland cement (PC). This study designed a new kind of cleaner cementitious material via solid-waste and low-alkalinity activation. Four possible low-alkali activators were investigated: calcium aluminate (CA), sodium aluminosilicate (SS), sodium carbonate (SC), and sodium aluminate (SA), as well as their combinations for activating high-volume lithium slag cement (HVLSC) via microstructural evolution. Results indicate that the SS–SA considerably enhances C–(A)–S–H and N–A–S–H co-gel formation and promotes ettringite (AFt) nucleation, increasing compressive strength by 306 %, 123 %, and 108 % after 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively. The SC activator reduces fluidity in SC systems because CO<sub>3</sub><sup>2−</sup> induces CaCO<sub>3</sub> precipitation. The SS–SA exhibits the best strength enhancing effect by leveraging the synergy of the Na<sup>+</sup>–SiO<sub>3</sub><sup>2−</sup>–AlO<sub>2</sub><sup>−</sup> ternary system. This synergy optimizes the density of the gel network and considerably enhances the strength of HVLSC and reduces CO<sub>2</sub> emissions per unit strength by 52.2 % of the carbon dioxide emission per unit strength.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100368"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145926153","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100373
Jan Kašpar , Giada Kyaw Oo D’Amore , Jessica Ferrari , Enrico Armelloni , Vincenzo Ballerini , Paolo Valdiserri , Eugenia Rossi di Schio , Mariagrazia Pilotelli , Hossein Soltanian , Manuela Neri
Although natural and recycled fibre-based insulation materials show promising thermal and acoustic performance, several challenges still limit their widespread adoption. This paper explores the properties and potential of recycled textile and natural fiber-based materials in enhancing building renovations. Specifically, it examines two types of insulation panels: those made from recycled textiles (Panels M) and those composed of kenaf and hemp fibers (Panels K). The study investigates various properties, including composition, density, thermal conductivity, acoustic performance, and fire response, highlighting the strengths and challenges associated with each material. The results reveal that while textile-based panels exhibit more variability in composition and performance, natural fiber panels are more uniform, making them a more predictable and reliable option. Thermal conductivity values ranged from 0.035 to 0.049 W/(m·K), with the natural fiber panels showing more consistent results. Acoustic performance, evaluated using both Sonocat sensor and the impedance tube also varied, with textile-based panel M45 performing particularly well approaching the Basotect performance (this latter used as a functional benchmark). Fire response, tested using Temperature Programmed Oxidation (TPO), indicated that kenaf-based panels demonstrated higher flammability compared to their textile counterparts. Furthermore, the study explored the effectiveness of fire retardants, finding that certain treatments helped suppress ignition.
{"title":"Multifunctional performance assessment of insulation panels from recycled textiles and Kenaf/Hemp Fibers: thermal, acoustic, and fire behavior","authors":"Jan Kašpar , Giada Kyaw Oo D’Amore , Jessica Ferrari , Enrico Armelloni , Vincenzo Ballerini , Paolo Valdiserri , Eugenia Rossi di Schio , Mariagrazia Pilotelli , Hossein Soltanian , Manuela Neri","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100373","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100373","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Although natural and recycled fibre-based insulation materials show promising thermal and acoustic performance, several challenges still limit their widespread adoption. This paper explores the properties and potential of recycled textile and natural fiber-based materials in enhancing building renovations. Specifically, it examines two types of insulation panels: those made from recycled textiles (Panels M) and those composed of kenaf and hemp fibers (Panels K). The study investigates various properties, including composition, density, thermal conductivity, acoustic performance, and fire response, highlighting the strengths and challenges associated with each material. The results reveal that while textile-based panels exhibit more variability in composition and performance, natural fiber panels are more uniform, making them a more predictable and reliable option. Thermal conductivity values ranged from 0.035 to 0.049 W/(m·K), with the natural fiber panels showing more consistent results. Acoustic performance, evaluated using both Sonocat sensor and the impedance tube also varied, with textile-based panel M45 performing particularly well approaching the Basotect performance (this latter used as a functional benchmark). Fire response, tested using Temperature Programmed Oxidation (TPO), indicated that kenaf-based panels demonstrated higher flammability compared to their textile counterparts. Furthermore, the study explored the effectiveness of fire retardants, finding that certain treatments helped suppress ignition.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100373"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145926151","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100372
Xintong Cheng , Ruibo Ren , Peng Wang , Qidong Zheng , Fei Zhai , Haiyu Wang , Lu Li , Jinwei Zhao , Han Chen , Jiahui Li
High-content rubber-modified asphalt (HC-RMA), incorporating over 25 % waste tire rubber powder, delivers environmental sustainability alongside enhanced pavement performance. However, a rubber content exceeding 30 % typically induces excessive viscosity and phase separation. To address these issues, HC-RMA samples were prepared using rubber powder with Mooney viscosities ranging from 40 to 120 MU. Among these, the binder containing 40 % rubber powder with 40 MU viscosity (CR40D) showed a practical viscosity of 1.34 Pa s at 180 °C and demonstrated superior performance, including enhanced high-temperature rutting resistance and improved low-temperature crack resistance. Microscopic analyses (CLSM and AFM) combined with Delaunay triangulation confirmed that the CR40D formulation promoted the formation of a uniform, dense rubber particle network with increased crosslinking density. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations identified a critical rubber content of 40 % by mass, at which optimal binder compatibility and the strongest intermolecular interactions (van der Waals forces up to 5.4 kJ/mol) were observed. Further increases in rubber content led to a notable decline in these interactions. In conclusion, incorporating 40 % low-Mooney-viscosity (40 MU) rubber powder optimizes the performance of HC-RMA. The resulting material is a high-performance, cost-effective, and eco-friendly paving binder with strong potential for sustainable road construction.
高含量橡胶改性沥青（HC-RMA），含有超过25%的废轮胎橡胶粉，在提高路面性能的同时实现了环境的可持续性。然而，橡胶含量超过30%通常会导致过度的粘度和相分离。为了解决这些问题，HC-RMA样品的制备使用了黏度为40 - 120 MU的胶粉。其中，含有40%黏度为40 MU的胶粉（CR40D）的粘结剂在180℃时的实际黏度为1.34 Pa s，表现出优异的性能，包括增强了高温车辙性能和提高了低温抗裂性能。微观分析（CLSM和AFM）结合Delaunay三角测量证实，CR40D配方促进了均匀、致密的橡胶颗粒网络的形成，并增加了交联密度。分子动力学（MD）模拟发现，当橡胶质量比为40%时，粘合剂相容性最佳，分子间相互作用最强（范德瓦尔斯力高达5.4 kJ/mol）。橡胶含量的进一步增加导致这些相互作用的显著下降。综上所述，添加40%低穆尼粘度（40 MU）的胶粉可优化HC-RMA的性能。由此产生的材料是一种高性能，具有成本效益和环保的铺装粘合剂，具有可持续道路建设的强大潜力。
{"title":"Feasibility of preparing the stable high-content rubber modified asphalt with low mooney viscosity crumb rubber powder: formulation design and modification mechanism","authors":"Xintong Cheng , Ruibo Ren , Peng Wang , Qidong Zheng , Fei Zhai , Haiyu Wang , Lu Li , Jinwei Zhao , Han Chen , Jiahui Li","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100372","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100372","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>High-content rubber-modified asphalt (HC-RMA), incorporating over 25 % waste tire rubber powder, delivers environmental sustainability alongside enhanced pavement performance. However, a rubber content exceeding 30 % typically induces excessive viscosity and phase separation. To address these issues, HC-RMA samples were prepared using rubber powder with Mooney viscosities ranging from 40 to 120 MU. Among these, the binder containing 40 % rubber powder with 40 MU viscosity (CR40D) showed a practical viscosity of 1.34 Pa s at 180 °C and demonstrated superior performance, including enhanced high-temperature rutting resistance and improved low-temperature crack resistance. Microscopic analyses (CLSM and AFM) combined with Delaunay triangulation confirmed that the CR40D formulation promoted the formation of a uniform, dense rubber particle network with increased crosslinking density. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations identified a critical rubber content of 40 % by mass, at which optimal binder compatibility and the strongest intermolecular interactions (van der Waals forces up to 5.4 kJ/mol) were observed. Further increases in rubber content led to a notable decline in these interactions. In conclusion, incorporating 40 % low-Mooney-viscosity (40 MU) rubber powder optimizes the performance of HC-RMA. The resulting material is a high-performance, cost-effective, and eco-friendly paving binder with strong potential for sustainable road construction.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100372"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145926154","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100370
Jiantao Wu, Chao Liang, Quan Liu, Yijie Liu
As the modern highway network continues to expand, the leaching contamination from asphalt pavements may pose environmental risks. Meanwhile, the complex environmental interactions are key factors influencing the leaching behavior of pollutants from pavement structures. To investigate the influence of purification materials on pollutant release behavior under the coupled effects of multiple environmental factors (such as temperature, UV and pH), and to assess their environmental hazards, this study prepared asphalt mixtures by substituting mineral powder with diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon. Laboratory leaching tests were conducted using a self-developed multi-factor environmental simulation device. The specimens were subjected to temperature and UV coupled aging, followed by leaching in acidic solutions with different pH values. Based on the experimental results, the leaching characterization of various pollutants under different environmental condition combinations were explored, and the influence of diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon on the leaching behavior of pollutants was evaluated. Furthermore, an evaluation system for pollutants was established by fuzzy mathematics to comprehensively assess the purification efficiency of purification materials. The results indicated that elevated temperatures generally promoted the leaching of most pollutants (except for arsenic). Diatomite exhibited the highest purification efficiency for nutrient pollutants, while activated carbon showed the best purification efficiency for heavy metal pollutants. The overall purification efficiency rankings for mineral powder, diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon were 8.4345, 6.0815, 5.9644, and 5.6713, respectively, with lower scores indicating higher efficiency, confirming that activated carbon demonstrating the best overall purification performance.
{"title":"Study on the filtration characteristics of asphalt mixtures containing different purification materials under multiple environmental impacts","authors":"Jiantao Wu, Chao Liang, Quan Liu, Yijie Liu","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100370","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100370","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>As the modern highway network continues to expand, the leaching contamination from asphalt pavements may pose environmental risks. Meanwhile, the complex environmental interactions are key factors influencing the leaching behavior of pollutants from pavement structures. To investigate the influence of purification materials on pollutant release behavior under the coupled effects of multiple environmental factors (such as temperature, UV and pH), and to assess their environmental hazards, this study prepared asphalt mixtures by substituting mineral powder with diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon. Laboratory leaching tests were conducted using a self-developed multi-factor environmental simulation device. The specimens were subjected to temperature and UV coupled aging, followed by leaching in acidic solutions with different pH values. Based on the experimental results, the leaching characterization of various pollutants under different environmental condition combinations were explored, and the influence of diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon on the leaching behavior of pollutants was evaluated. Furthermore, an evaluation system for pollutants was established by fuzzy mathematics to comprehensively assess the purification efficiency of purification materials. The results indicated that elevated temperatures generally promoted the leaching of most pollutants (except for arsenic). Diatomite exhibited the highest purification efficiency for nutrient pollutants, while activated carbon showed the best purification efficiency for heavy metal pollutants. The overall purification efficiency rankings for mineral powder, diatomite, zeolite, and activated carbon were 8.4345, 6.0815, 5.9644, and 5.6713, respectively, with lower scores indicating higher efficiency, confirming that activated carbon demonstrating the best overall purification performance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100370"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146037972","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100369
Antonio Gasós , Marco Mazzotti , Frank Winnefeld
The rising demand for low-carbon construction materials and the declining availability of traditional supplementary cementitious materials have driven interest in alternative substitutes. Alkaline industrial residues—such as incineration ashes, cement kiln dusts, and steel slags—are abundant but often unsuitable for direct use in cement due to unfavorable chemical and mineralogical compositions. This study investigates the CO2 uptake and the potential of six such residues for partial cement replacement after treatment through aqueous mineral carbonation, using both direct carbonation in water and indirect carbonation in aqueous ammonium nitrate. Direct carbonation forms carbonates within the residues, while indirect carbonation produces two separate streams: a calcium-depleted leached residue and precipitated calcium carbonate. Mortars incorporating directly carbonated residues generally achieved higher compressive strength than those with fresh and leached residues, at 30 wt% cement replacement, likely due to calcite-induced nucleation and the pozzolanic reactivity of silica-rich gels. Although overall reactivity was limited—suggesting low to moderate clinker replacement potential—both aqueous carbonation routes removed or stabilized deleterious phases such as free lime, alkalis, and chlorides, expanding the potential use of these residues in construction, either as cement substitutes or fine fillers. Leaching tests revealed changes in hazardous element mobility, with implications for regulatory classification. Market analysis showed that while the cement sector could absorb suitable supplementary cementitious materials at moderate replacement levels, the limited demand for high-purity precipitated calcium carbonate constrains indirect carbonation to select feedstocks. This study provides a comparative framework for integrating mineral carbonation products into construction, which would enable CO2 storage and resource circularity.
{"title":"Utilization of products from aqueous mineral carbonation of industrial residues as supplementary cementitious materials","authors":"Antonio Gasós , Marco Mazzotti , Frank Winnefeld","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100369","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100369","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The rising demand for low-carbon construction materials and the declining availability of traditional supplementary cementitious materials have driven interest in alternative substitutes. Alkaline industrial residues—such as incineration ashes, cement kiln dusts, and steel slags—are abundant but often unsuitable for direct use in cement due to unfavorable chemical and mineralogical compositions. This study investigates the CO<sub>2</sub> uptake and the potential of six such residues for partial cement replacement after treatment through aqueous mineral carbonation, using both direct carbonation in water and indirect carbonation in aqueous ammonium nitrate. Direct carbonation forms carbonates within the residues, while indirect carbonation produces two separate streams: a calcium-depleted leached residue and precipitated calcium carbonate. Mortars incorporating directly carbonated residues generally achieved higher compressive strength than those with fresh and leached residues, at 30 wt% cement replacement, likely due to calcite-induced nucleation and the pozzolanic reactivity of silica-rich gels. Although overall reactivity was limited—suggesting low to moderate clinker replacement potential—both aqueous carbonation routes removed or stabilized deleterious phases such as free lime, alkalis, and chlorides, expanding the potential use of these residues in construction, either as cement substitutes or fine fillers. Leaching tests revealed changes in hazardous element mobility, with implications for regulatory classification. Market analysis showed that while the cement sector could absorb suitable supplementary cementitious materials at moderate replacement levels, the limited demand for high-purity precipitated calcium carbonate constrains indirect carbonation to select feedstocks. This study provides a comparative framework for integrating mineral carbonation products into construction, which would enable CO<sub>2</sub> storage and resource circularity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100369"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146037973","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100366
Sarath Haridas Kaniyamparambil , Zainuddin Ziyan , Naser AlBlooshi , M-Haidar Ali Dali , Erlantz Lizundia , Srinivas Mettu , Ghanim Mabrook , Mohamed Hamid Salim , Blaise L. Tardy
The chitinous fibrous network of mycelium has recently been implemented as a sustainable packaging or leather alternative. Other endeavors are currently explored given the environmentally friendly biofabrication process, suitable mechanics, flame resistance, and insulative properties. In this proof-of-concept study, we explore the potential of mycelium (Pleurotus ostreatus) to form bio-blocks by propagating across cotton, polyester, and mixed shredded textile fabrics (MSTF). Biocomposites showed distinct colonization patterns as a function of inoculation condition and textile type. Cotton-based composites demonstrated good structural integrity, reaching a flexural strength of 82.5 kPa and a toughness of 3298 kJm−3. Polyester-based composites exhibited a similar flexural strength of 80.5 kPa but showed nearly half the toughness at 1414 kJ/m−3. Flammability tests revealed flame extinction after 30 s in cotton composites, with 40 % of the area burned, whereas polyester composites reduced the combustion rate by 76 %. A comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) focusing on environmental impacts shows a cradle-to-gate commercial-scale climate change potential of 0.05 and 4.28 kg-CO2-equiv per kilogram of biobrick considering renewable-based and fossil-based energy mix scenarios, respectively. Our findings establish mycelium as an effective binding agent for textiles towards the formation of materials with complex forms benefiting from the inherent attributes of textiles.
{"title":"Biofabrication of mycelium-fabric biocomposites from textile residues","authors":"Sarath Haridas Kaniyamparambil , Zainuddin Ziyan , Naser AlBlooshi , M-Haidar Ali Dali , Erlantz Lizundia , Srinivas Mettu , Ghanim Mabrook , Mohamed Hamid Salim , Blaise L. Tardy","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100366","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100366","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The chitinous fibrous network of mycelium has recently been implemented as a sustainable packaging or leather alternative. Other endeavors are currently explored given the environmentally friendly biofabrication process, suitable mechanics, flame resistance, and insulative properties. In this proof-of-concept study, we explore the potential of mycelium (<em>Pleurotus ostreatus</em>) to form bio-blocks by propagating across cotton, polyester, and mixed shredded textile fabrics (MSTF). Biocomposites showed distinct colonization patterns as a function of inoculation condition and textile type. Cotton-based composites demonstrated good structural integrity, reaching a flexural strength of 82.5 kPa and a toughness of 3298 kJm<sup>−3</sup>. Polyester-based composites exhibited a similar flexural strength of 80.5 kPa but showed nearly half the toughness at 1414 kJ/m<sup>−3</sup>. Flammability tests revealed flame extinction after 30 s in cotton composites, with 40 % of the area burned, whereas polyester composites reduced the combustion rate by 76 %. A comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) focusing on environmental impacts shows a <em>cradle-to-gate</em> commercial-scale climate change potential of 0.05 and 4.28 kg-CO<sub>2</sub>-equiv per kilogram of biobrick considering renewable-based and fossil-based energy mix scenarios, respectively. Our findings establish mycelium as an effective binding agent for textiles towards the formation of materials with complex forms benefiting from the inherent attributes of textiles.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100366"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145977603","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100367
Jeong-Rae Ahn , Byung-Joo Kim
Porous carbon fibers offer high specific surface area, rapid adsorption kinetics, and excellent structural durability, making them attractive for environmental and energy-related applications. However, converting polyolefin-based precursors such as high-density polyethylene into carbon fibers is challenging because severe structural collapse often occurs during carbonization. In this study, we propose a three-step stabilization strategy consisting of electron-beam irradiation, sulfonation, and phosphorylation, which enhances thermal stability and enables the formation of uniformly crosslinked fibers throughout the fiber cross section. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the multi-acid stabilization produced a char yield comparable to that obtained by sulfuric-acid-only treatment (47.36% vs. 47.41% at 800℃). Tensile strength measurements after carbonization revealed that fibers treated with the multi-acid stabilization method exhibited approximately a 40% improvement compared to sulfonation-only fibers. Microstructural analyses using SEM, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD confirmed suppressed core collapse, reduced defect gradients, and improved crystallite ordering, which collectively facilitated enhanced mesopore development in the resulting porous carbon fibers.
{"title":"Modified stabilization route for the preparation of HDPE-derived porous carbon fibers","authors":"Jeong-Rae Ahn , Byung-Joo Kim","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100367","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100367","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Porous carbon fibers offer high specific surface area, rapid adsorption kinetics, and excellent structural durability, making them attractive for environmental and energy-related applications. However, converting polyolefin-based precursors such as high-density polyethylene into carbon fibers is challenging because severe structural collapse often occurs during carbonization. In this study, we propose a three-step stabilization strategy consisting of electron-beam irradiation, sulfonation, and phosphorylation, which enhances thermal stability and enables the formation of uniformly crosslinked fibers throughout the fiber cross section. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the multi-acid stabilization produced a char yield comparable to that obtained by sulfuric-acid-only treatment (47.36% vs. 47.41% at 800℃). Tensile strength measurements after carbonization revealed that fibers treated with the multi-acid stabilization method exhibited approximately a 40% improvement compared to sulfonation-only fibers. Microstructural analyses using SEM, Raman spectroscopy, and XRD confirmed suppressed core collapse, reduced defect gradients, and improved crystallite ordering, which collectively facilitated enhanced mesopore development in the resulting porous carbon fibers.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100367"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145926155","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-02DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2026.100371
Barney H. Miao , Daniel Woo , Andrew C. Lesh , David J. Loftus , Michael D. Lepech
Cement-free construction materials are essential to reduce global carbon emissions, yet scalable alternatives remain limited. We report the development of a lignin-based biopolymer-bound soil composite (BSC), a novel cement-free material with mechanical properties comparable to lightweight concrete. To advance its scalability and environmental performance, we also used a systematic framework for solvent selection in lignin biocomposite fabrication. Applying this approach, we identified an acetic acid–water solvent system that speeds up manufacturing and enhances material quality. BSCs fabricated with this system exhibit increased strength (5.4 MPa vs. 3.7 MPa), attributed to acetylation of lignin. In addition, the acetic acid–water system dramatically reduces drying time compared with the alternative solvent, dimethyl sulfoxide (2 days vs. 14 days), enabling more efficient production. Life cycle assessment reveals additional CO sequestration and a 70 % reduction in material cost (US$122–237/ vs. US$409–933/) relative to lignin biocomposite made using DMSO as the solvent. These improvements stem from solvent-induced modifications in lignin chemistry that enhance composite performance. This work demonstrates how both material design and rational solvent selection can pave the way for adoption of lignin-based composites as scalable, affordable, and low-carbon alternatives for the built environment.
无水泥建筑材料对减少全球碳排放至关重要，但可扩展的替代品仍然有限。我们报告了木质素基生物聚合物结合土壤复合材料（BSC）的发展，这是一种新型无水泥材料，具有与轻质混凝土相当的机械性能。为了提高其可扩展性和环境性能，我们还使用了木质素生物复合材料制造中溶剂选择的系统框架。应用这种方法，我们确定了一种醋酸-水溶剂系统，可以加快生产速度并提高材料质量。由于木质素的乙酰化，用该体系制备的BSCs具有更高的强度（5.4 MPa vs 3.7 MPa）。此外，与替代溶剂二甲亚砜相比，乙酸-水系统显著缩短了干燥时间（2天vs. 14天），从而提高了生产效率。生命周期评估显示，与使用DMSO作为溶剂的木质素生物复合材料相比，额外的二氧化碳封存和材料成本降低70%（122-237美元/立方米，而409-933美元/立方米）。这些改进源于溶剂诱导的木质素化学修饰，增强了复合材料的性能。这项工作展示了材料设计和合理的溶剂选择如何为采用木质素基复合材料铺平道路，使其成为建筑环境中可扩展的、负担得起的低碳替代品。
{"title":"Solvent selection enables sustainable and affordable lignin biocomposite for cement-free construction","authors":"Barney H. Miao , Daniel Woo , Andrew C. Lesh , David J. Loftus , Michael D. Lepech","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100371","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2026.100371","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Cement-free construction materials are essential to reduce global carbon emissions, yet scalable alternatives remain limited. We report the development of a lignin-based biopolymer-bound soil composite (BSC), a novel cement-free material with mechanical properties comparable to lightweight concrete. To advance its scalability and environmental performance, we also used a systematic framework for solvent selection in lignin biocomposite fabrication. Applying this approach, we identified an acetic acid–water solvent system that speeds up manufacturing and enhances material quality. BSCs fabricated with this system exhibit increased strength (5.4 MPa vs. 3.7 MPa), attributed to acetylation of lignin. In addition, the acetic acid–water system dramatically reduces drying time compared with the alternative solvent, dimethyl sulfoxide (2 days vs. 14 days), enabling more efficient production. Life cycle assessment reveals additional CO<span><math><msub><mrow></mrow><mrow><mn>2</mn></mrow></msub></math></span> sequestration and a 70 % reduction in material cost (US$122–237/<span><math><msup><mrow><mi>m</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>3</mn></mrow></msup></math></span> vs. US$409–933/<span><math><msup><mrow><mi>m</mi></mrow><mrow><mn>3</mn></mrow></msup></math></span>) relative to lignin biocomposite made using DMSO as the solvent. These improvements stem from solvent-induced modifications in lignin chemistry that enhance composite performance. This work demonstrates how both material design and rational solvent selection can pave the way for adoption of lignin-based composites as scalable, affordable, and low-carbon alternatives for the built environment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100371"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145926152","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This paper presents a detailed review of wood-cement composites, focusing on their material characteristics, mechanical performance, and evolution as a class of sustainable and cleaner construction material. Formed by combining wood particles with cementitious binders, these composites offer a unique alternative to conventional building materials by utilising renewable resources, supporting cleaner production practices, and reducing embodied carbon. The review is based on an extensive compilation of experimental data drawn from the literature, covering a wide range of studies that examine the effects of wood species, binder types, fabrication methods, and testing protocols on composite performance. Particular attention is given to the influence of binder composition, wood particle size, and mix ratios on key mechanical properties, including compressive strength, flexural strength, density, and toughness. These parameters are critically assessed to establish their role in governing the structural reliability and functional suitability of the composites. The review also addresses production techniques and standardised testing methods, identifying common challenges such as the chemical incompatibility between lignocellulosic materials and cement hydrates, and summarising approaches developed to mitigate these issues. Recent developments, including the use of alkali-activated binders, are examined for their potential to enhance material performance and support cleaner material development. By consolidating existing research and identifying gaps in current knowledge, this paper aims to support further technical advancement and inform the practical implementation of wood-cement composites in environmentally responsible construction.
{"title":"From Portland cement to alkali-activated system: advances in wood-cement composites for sustainable building applications","authors":"Firesenay Zerabruk Gigar , Amar Khennane , Jong-Leng Liow , Biruk Hailu Tekle , Zongjun Li","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100365","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100365","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This paper presents a detailed review of wood-cement composites, focusing on their material characteristics, mechanical performance, and evolution as a class of sustainable and cleaner construction material. Formed by combining wood particles with cementitious binders, these composites offer a unique alternative to conventional building materials by utilising renewable resources, supporting cleaner production practices, and reducing embodied carbon. The review is based on an extensive compilation of experimental data drawn from the literature, covering a wide range of studies that examine the effects of wood species, binder types, fabrication methods, and testing protocols on composite performance. Particular attention is given to the influence of binder composition, wood particle size, and mix ratios on key mechanical properties, including compressive strength, flexural strength, density, and toughness. These parameters are critically assessed to establish their role in governing the structural reliability and functional suitability of the composites. The review also addresses production techniques and standardised testing methods, identifying common challenges such as the chemical incompatibility between lignocellulosic materials and cement hydrates, and summarising approaches developed to mitigate these issues. Recent developments, including the use of alkali-activated binders, are examined for their potential to enhance material performance and support cleaner material development. By consolidating existing research and identifying gaps in current knowledge, this paper aims to support further technical advancement and inform the practical implementation of wood-cement composites in environmentally responsible construction.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100365"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791582","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-05DOI: 10.1016/j.clema.2025.100363
Zijun Xu , Zhe Wu , Philippe Poulin , Yilin Wang , Zhengbo Liu , S. Thomas Ng , Guoyang Lu
Without a comprehensive examination of the available literature on carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNs) across various engineering contexts and dimensions, the field is left vulnerable to a disproportionate focus on specific application requirements or conditions, curtailing the ability to leverage the multifunctionality and interdisciplinary advantages of CBNs. Carbon-based nanocomposites serve as a pivotal conduit for the extensive utilization of CBNs. Their functional performance is commonly tailored through approaches such as functional modification, doping, interface engineering, and multiscale structural design. A systematic discussion is presented on the current design strategies of nanocomposites incorporating carbon dots (CDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene-based nanomaterials (GBNs). Representative cases illustrate their significant engineering application potential in five rapidly evolving and highly active fields: electronic devices, energy storage, civil engineering, water treatment, and biomedical engineering. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in CBNs, emphasizing key applications, ongoing challenges, and emerging research opportunities across diverse domains. Interdisciplinary collaboration is poised to further drive innovation, particularly in areas such as energy storage, structural health monitoring, and biosensing. Future advancements are expected to focus on advanced material design, sustainable and scalable fabrication, intelligent optimization using artificial intelligence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and systematic validation to overcome challenges in synthesis, performance, commercialization, and integration. These insights collectively underscore the pivotal role of CBNs in shaping multifunctional, cross-cutting solutions for next-generation engineering systems.
{"title":"A state-of-the-art review on carbon-based nanomaterials for engineering applications","authors":"Zijun Xu , Zhe Wu , Philippe Poulin , Yilin Wang , Zhengbo Liu , S. Thomas Ng , Guoyang Lu","doi":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100363","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clema.2025.100363","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Without a comprehensive examination of the available literature on carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNs) across various engineering contexts and dimensions, the field is left vulnerable to a disproportionate focus on specific application requirements or conditions, curtailing the ability to leverage the multifunctionality and interdisciplinary advantages of CBNs. Carbon-based nanocomposites serve as a pivotal conduit for the extensive utilization of CBNs. Their functional performance is commonly tailored through approaches such as functional modification, doping, interface engineering, and multiscale structural design. A systematic discussion is presented on the current design strategies of nanocomposites incorporating carbon dots (CDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and graphene-based nanomaterials (GBNs). Representative cases illustrate their significant engineering application potential in five rapidly evolving and highly active fields: electronic devices, energy storage, civil engineering, water treatment, and biomedical engineering. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in CBNs, emphasizing key applications, ongoing challenges, and emerging research opportunities across diverse domains. Interdisciplinary collaboration is poised to further drive innovation, particularly in areas such as energy storage, structural health monitoring, and biosensing. Future advancements are expected to focus on advanced material design, sustainable and scalable fabrication, intelligent optimization using artificial intelligence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and systematic validation to overcome challenges in synthesis, performance, commercialization, and integration. These insights collectively underscore the pivotal role of CBNs in shaping multifunctional, cross-cutting solutions for next-generation engineering systems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100254,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Materials","volume":"19 ","pages":"Article 100363"},"PeriodicalIF":9.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145698043","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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