Russian Scientists Investigate Peat as Concrete Additive

IKBFU researchers developed a peat additive that enhances the strength and other properties of concrete. The new locally-sourced material is specifically designed for use in construction 3D-printing. The findings were published in the journal Materials Today: Proceedings.

Experts suggest that using unconventional concrete additives can reduce production costs and significantly enhance its functional properties.

A team of IKBFU scientists developed a novel concrete additive consisting of thermally modified peat sourced from a deposit in the Kaliningrad region.

Maria Dmitrieva, professor at the Institute of High Technology:
The presence of a thermally modified additive, derived from lowland peat found in the Glushkovo quarry, at a concentration of 4-8% of the total mixture weight, enhances the density of concrete, resulting in a 15-30% increase in strength. Moreover, it slightly improves its water-retention capacity by approximately 2%.

The objective of the research team at IKBFU was to explore various peat processing methods for use in local construction, taking advantage of regional peat varieties.

To create the additive, peat was dehydrated and subjected to thermal treatment at specific temperatures meant to maintain the organic compounds that enhance the strength of concrete. At the same time, peat resin was separated. The resulting additive was then sifted and dispersed until the optimal particle size was reached.

Maria Dmitrieva, professor at the Institute of High Technology:
Peat contains many organic and mineral compounds, which allows for use of its different varieties and treatment methods to create concrete with the desired characteristics. The presence of various organic and mineral compounds in peat enables the utilisation of differing combinations of peat types and treatment techniques to achieve desired qualities of concrete. The idea of utilising peat as a concrete additive was put forward by our colleagues at Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

Maria Dmitrieva, professor at the Institute of High Technology:

Peat contains many organic and mineral compounds, which allows for use of its different varieties and treatment methods to create concrete with the desired characteristics.

The presence of various organic and mineral compounds in peat enables the utilisation of differing combinations of peat types and treatment techniques to achieve desired qualities of concrete.

The idea of utilising peat as a concrete additive was put forward by our colleagues at Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

The research team continues to explore optimal manufacturing methods to ensure stable properties of the material, as well as study the effects of combining peat with other types of concrete additives.