Fly ash carbon composites: A breakthrough in CO2 capture and energy efficiency

Carbon composites made from fly ash represent a significant innovation in environmentally friendly construction materials. These composites offer multiple advantages, including CO 2 capture and improved energy efficiency, which leads to a circular economy. Fly ash, which is a by-product of coal combustion, has been integrated into carbon-based materials to create composites that enhance concrete's structural performance while also supporting environmental sustainability. Given that a high surface area and porosity are crucial for CO 2 adsorption, these composites are expected to serve as an environmentally friendly alternative for producing construction materials with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon materials intermixed in fly ash composites increase concrete mechanical strength and service life, help construction projects last longer, and extend their useful lives more cost-effectively. Besides incorporating QWR into composites, this approach reduces the energy required for processing since, unlike conventional materials, they are manufactured at lower temperatures and with less energy-demanding processes. CO 2 adsorption capacity of fly ash carbon composites can be increased due to the synergistic effects between carbon and fly ash via higher CO 2 capture efficiency by research. Moreover, the use of industrial waste fly ash is in line with the principles of circular economy, lessening waste and promoting resource efficiency. The fly ash carbon composites could enhance the performance of construction materials, at the same time, it can solve problems related to CO 2 emission and energy production. Adoption of the same by the construction industry can be useful in achieving sustainability goals SDG11 and reducing the carbon footprint (SDG13) of infrastructure projects to attract greener, more energy-efficient building practices.