Abstract: The possibility of moss concrete as an environmentally friendly way to lessen the impact of urban heat islands (UHIs) is examined in this research. There are several strategies that may be used to reduce the impacts of UHI, including building green roofs, increasing energy efficiency, and using materials with high reflectivity. A type of concrete called “moss concrete” is made naturally and environmentally friendly by adding moss to the mixture. Mosses are recognized for their ability to retain moisture, which helps regulate surface temperatures and lessen the impact of UHI. Moss concrete is a type of biological concrete created when moss grows on the exterior of buildings. Moss concrete is made using a traditional concrete layer that acts as the building’s structural support system and a waterproof layer. There is an exterior layer of moss concrete that allows rainfall to permeate and promote the growth of the organisms, a waterproof layer that acts as a barrier, and a concrete layer that serves as the building’s structural component. By capturing extra carbon dioxide from the environment, moss concrete not only extends the life of roofs but also improves storm-water management and water runoff quality.
We all understand the value of nature for ourselves, but we no longer have the luxury of going into the wild to obtain it. Nevertheless, there are still ways to find it in our urban lives. You might be wondering why there isn’t any room for trees to grow in our cement structures, but there is another way to get greenery into our cities.
1 Overview
The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is one of the many environmental problems that urbanization has brought about. The UHI effect is the result of solar radiation being absorbed and emitted by urban buildings. In order to control surface temperatures and lessen the impact of UHI, vegetation is crucial. Moss concrete’s special qualities make it a viable option for reducing UHI. The effect of concrete and asphalt pavements on reducing the earth’s surface temperature was evaluated in a recent study. The study carefully contrasted these two pavement types’ albedo effects—which gauge surface reflectivity—in a given application and region. The findings showed that considerable temperature reductions might be obtained by raising the average albedo and using concrete pavements rather than asphalt ones. According to estimates, these temperature drops correspond to the removal of 25–75 kg CO2/m^2. Additional studies indicate that moss concrete’s compressive strength rises with time compared to normal concrete. Urban surfaces can be made more reflective by using solar-reflective materials, which will counteract the rising trend in global temperatures. Global cooling and a reduction in CO2 emissions of 3 × 10^-15 K and 7 kg per 1 m^2 of surface, respectively, were demonstrated by simulations. This study investigates moss concrete’s potential as an environmentally benign way to reduce UHI and increase the longevity of construction components.
Moss
The group of plants that are not vascular, under the division Bryophyte, is referred to as moss. In moist or shaded areas, these tiny, soft plants usually form thick green clusters or mats. Mosses reproduce via spores; they have neither flowers nor seeds. By assisting in the soil’s moisture retention and serving as a home for insects and other tiny creatures, they perform a significant ecological function. Additionally, mosses are employed in gardening, landscaping, and as a decorative element in crafts and artwork.
Urban Heat Island Effect
Heat buildup in urban areas brought on by development and human activity is known as the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Urban temperatures, hydrology, soil characteristics, atmospheric environments, material and energy cycles, and the health of the populace may all be significantly impacted, changing both the structure and functioning of urban ecological systems. Several strategies may be used to reduce the impacts of UHI, including increasing energy efficiency, building green roofs, using high-reflectivity materials, and cultivating green spaces. Theoretical references for enhancing the urban ecological environment and achieving sustainable urban development have been produced by research employing remote sensing and numerical simulation techniques. The temperature is often greater in metropolitan regions than in rural ones, as seen by the typical UHI.
Green Roof Benefits
Rooftop greening is a good way to reduce UHI since green roofs cool the surrounding area and act as insulation. Saunooke moss is a desirable afforestation plant for rooftop greening because of its high rate of evapotranspiration and favorable thermal qualities. Nevertheless, Saunooke moss must be produced industrially to satisfy the demand for greening city rooftops. In order to do this, Saunooke moss is produced in plant factories, and the production system is optimized through the development of a unique technique for analyzing the transpiration qualities of the moss. Additional studies show that sustainable ecological architecture is a type of architectural design that integrates nature into every facet of construction. These structures use both living and non-living elements to support or develop ecosystems. Exploring how ecological components affect buildings, their inhabitants, and the surrounding environment is the goal of ecological architecture, which emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between architectural design and nature.
A layer of plants placed on top of a building is called a “green roof,” and it has several advantages, such as better storm-water management, better air quality, longer roof life, and a reduction in UHI. The best choice for retrofitting existing buildings with minimal care requirements are extensive green roofs, which have low-level plants like sedum on a thin substrate layer. These roofs are also simple to construct. Green roofs’ improved thermal properties and insulation value can also result in benefits for building energy reduction. Energy savings from retrofitting existing buildings with green roofs are possible, but further study is required to quantify these advantages.
Protection from Rainwater and Light
Moss has been shown to benefit a variety of materials, such as wood and concrete, by shielding them from light and precipitation. A study claims that as moss develops on a surface, it creates a layer of cells that can store and absorb water, functioning like a sponge. By doing this, you can reduce the amount of water that seeps into the material, which over time may cause damage from weathering effects, erosion, and freeze-thaw cycles. Apart from its capacity to absorb water, moss can also filter and absorb light. Harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight can eventually cause things to fade and degrade. Moss effectively blocks out a significant amount of UV radiation, minimizing the damage that exposure to sunlight may cause. Additionally, studies have shown that moss can help lower a material’s surface temperature, which can prevent cracking and other forms of thermal stress-related damage. Moss’s ability to absorb and retain moisture can chill a material’s surface by 10-20 degrees Celsius. All things considered, moss is a viable natural option for long-lasting and ecological construction materials due to its ability to shield materials from light, heat, and moisture.
Role of Moss Concrete in Storm-water Management and Temperature Regulation
The capacity of moss to hold onto water and reduce runoff has demonstrated the effectiveness of moss concrete in storm-water control. Moss can absorb up to 20 times its dry weight in water due to its high water retention ability. It can absorb storm-water runoff when added to concrete, lowering the quantity of water entering the sewage system and reducing the risk of floods. Furthermore, moss’s ability to take up contaminants from the air and water can improve
Disadvantages of Moss Concrete
As a byproduct of their metabolic activities, mushrooms generate oxalic acid, which can erode concrete.
Concrete may expand as a result of oxalic acid’s reaction with calcium ions to create calcium oxalate crystals, which occupy more space than the initial calcium ions did. The concrete may experience stress as a result of this expansion, which might result in damage including cracking and spelling. Furthermore, moss’s ability to hold moisture might result in more water being retained in the concrete over time, which can exacerbate erosion and other problems. Nonetheless, some academics are looking at ways to lessen these consequences, such as changing the concrete’s composition or adding coatings to prevent erosion.
Practical Applications of Moss Concrete
Moss concrete incorporates moss into the concrete mixture, enhancing its functionality and offering added benefits. This innovative material has several practical applications in construction and landscaping:
1. Green Walls and Facades: Moss concrete is ideal for creating living green walls and facades, where the concrete is formulated to support moss growth. These vertical gardens improve air quality, provide thermal insulation, and enhance visual appeal. The grass serves as a natural filter, removing pollutants and reducing noise.
2. Pavements and Walkways: Moss concrete can be used for eco-friendly pavements and walkways, offering a greener alternative to traditional concrete or asphalt. The moss adds visual appeal and helps mitigate heat island effects by absorbing and dissipating heat.
3. Noise Barriers and Sound Walls: Moss concrete can be integrated into noise barriers along highways and railways. The moss absorbs sound, helping reduce noise pollution and fostering a quieter environment.
4. Ecological Restoration: Moss concrete supports ecological restoration by providing a sustainable surface for moss growth, making it suitable for erosion control, slope stabilization, and habitat creation in areas that need vegetation cover.
5. Urban Landscaping: In parks, gardens, and public spaces, moss concrete enhances urban landscaping, bringing greenery, improving aesthetics, and promoting environmental sustainability.