A comprehensive approach for designing workable bio-based cementitious composites

The present work proposes a generalized method for designing moldable bio-concretes, incorporating three types of vegetable residues (wood shaving, bamboo particles and rice husk) which are employed as bio-aggregates within a cement-based matrix. The above-mentioned procedure is based, first of all, on a fundamental physical and morphological characterization of the bio-aggregates as well as on the analysis of their compatibility with cement-based matrices. Then, considering the specific features of the employed bio-aggregates, a novel approach is also presented for the mixing production process of bioconcretes mixtures with the aim of warranty an adequate consistency and easy moldability at the fresh state. Finally, a comprehensive experimental campaign is performed with the aim of analyzing the influence of bio-aggregates on the bio-concretes performances at hardened state. The analysis proposed herein unveils the existing relationship between compressive strength, water-to-cement ratio, cement consumption and bio-concrete density leading to a proposed simplified design abaci. Considering the rational nature of the proposed approach, it can be easily extended to others kind of bio-aggregates that could be considered for producing workable bioconcretes.