The Department of Civil & Construction Engineering at the University of Nairobi is pleased to share an exciting update on its research partnership with Pyrogen. The collaboration, now in its final stages of formalisation, focuses on pioneering the use of biochar in civil engineering applications — particularly in low-carbon concrete and sustainable construction technologies.

Leading the research project is Eng. Muthomi Munyua and MSc student Timothy Kimuya Muli whose work champions climate-smart engineering solutions. The research aims to advance Kenya's capacity in circular, carbon-negative building materials, positioning the University of Nairobi at the forefront of innovative materials science in East Africa.

About the Research

This collaboration centres on:

• Utilising biochar as a concrete additive for improved mechanical and durability performance

• Reducing carbon footprints in construction materials

• Supporting the transition towards greener and more resilient infrastructure

Biochar — a carbon-rich material produced from pyrolysis of biomass — is emerging globally as a transformative resource for both carbon sequestration and construction engineering.

A Strategic Partnership

The partnership will support:

• Joint experimental research and material testing

• Capacity building for postgraduate researchers

• Knowledge exchange on advanced pyro-processing and material technologies

• Public outreach on sustainable engineering innovations

Eng. Munyua noted:

“Biochar is an exciting frontier in sustainable construction. This collaboration will accelerate Kenyan-led research and strengthen our global presence in climate-smart engineering.”

See More

There is a LinkedIn post available with a short video highlighting the collaboration and its potential impact. We invite staff, students, and industry partners to view and share it to support awareness and engagement with this groundbreaking work.

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Looking Ahead

As final partnership formalities are completed, the department is preparing to scale laboratory work and engage industry players for pilot-level testing and demonstration projects.

The University of Nairobi remains committed to supporting cutting-edge research that advances sustainability, industry collaboration, and national development goals.

Innovating with purpose. Engineering a low-carbon future.