Applications of wood ash as a construction material in civil engineering: a review

Wood resources, including wood materials and wood fuel, have been widely used since the beginning of human society. Today's surging demand for buildings and energy has made people more dependent on wood, and as a result, the world produces tens of millions of tons of wood ash every year. How to manage and reuse these wastes has gradually aroused people's concern. Among many beneficial management options, this paper focuses on civil engineering, the world's most energy-intensive and resource-consuming sector. Through reviewing the research on using wood ash in concretes and mortars, geopolymers and alkali-activated materials, road construction and soil stabilization, bricks, panels, and other green construction materials, this paper explores the possibility and potential of using wood ash in civil engineering. Given the current situation of preferentially studying mechanical properties, this review further discusses some research questions, such as the limitation of wood ash itself, costs, environment, and standards and regulations, hoping to improve the commercialization and valorization of wood ash.

Automated summary

Wood resources have been widely used throughout human society, and the increasing demand for wood has resulted in the production of large quantities of wood ash waste each year. This paper explores the possibility and potential of using wood ash in civil engineering and discusses research questions and suggestions to improve the commercialization and valorization of wood ash.