Volcanic rocks in the 21st century: Multifaceted applications for sustainable development

Volcanic rocks, with their diverse physicochemical properties, are pivotal in numerous scientific and industrial applications. This review comprehensively examines the multifaceted uses of volcanic rocks, focusing on their roles in sustainable construction, environmental remediation, and industrial catalysis. Volcanic materials like basalt and pumice enhance the durability and thermal efficiency of construction materials, while their porous structures facilitate the adsorption of pollutants in environmental applications. Additionally, their catalytic properties are harnessed in various industrial processes, promoting cleaner production techniques. This review synthesizes current research and explores future innovations, emphasizing the potential of volcanic rocks to contribute to sustainable development and technological advancement. The integration of volcanic rocks in sustainable practices highlights their role in promoting ecological balance and resource efficiency. The findings underscore the significance of interdisciplinary approaches in leveraging volcanic rocks for eco-friendly and economically viable solutions, demonstrating their potential to address global challenges through innovative applications and future research directions. • Volcanic rocks enhance eco-friendly construction and environmental solutions. • Basalt and pumice improve concrete strength and thermal efficiency. • Porous volcanic rocks excel in pollution control and soil remediation. • Research explores volcanic rocks’ catalytic and sustainable applications. • Future studies emphasize volcanic rocks’ interdisciplinary potential.