Carbon-negative Concrete
Concrete that removes more CO₂ than is emitted during its production.
What is Carbon-negative Concrete?
Carbon-negative concrete refers to concrete products that, over their lifecycle, are designed to remove more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than is emitted during their production, use, and end-of-life. This is typically achieved by incorporating carbon capture technologies or carbon mineralization processes into the manufacturing of the cement or concrete.
Why is Carbon-negative Concrete important?
Carbon-negative concrete is important because the traditional cement and concrete industry is a major emitter of CO₂. Developing carbon-negative alternatives offers a significant pathway to decarbonize a hard-to-abate sector while also providing a durable carbon sink within the built environment, contributing to circular economy principles.
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Frequently asked questions
It can become carbon-negative by using CO₂ as a curing agent in the concrete mix (carbon mineralization), incorporating industrial waste materials that have absorbed CO₂, or utilizing low-carbon binders combined with carbon removal technologies.
Carbon-negative concrete is an emerging technology, with various startups and research initiatives developing different approaches. While some products are on the market, widespread adoption and scaling are still in early stages.
Research indicates that concrete incorporating carbon mineralization can be as durable, or even more durable, than traditional concrete, as the mineralization process enhances its strength and impermeability.