Carbon Upcycling utilizes a patented technology platform to transform local industrial byproducts and natural materials into carbon-sequestering cement replacements, effectively reducing the carbon footprint of concrete production. This process addresses the significant CO2 emissions generated by the cement industry, which accounts for eight percent of global emissions, while enhancing concrete performance and durability.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
GLFounders
Product
Problem
The cement industry is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, accounting for approximately 8% of the total, due to the energy-intensive process of baking limestone and the release of CO2 during its decomposition. Traditional methods of reducing these emissions, such as electrification, are insufficient because of the inherent chemical processes involved in cement production. This poses a significant challenge to decarbonizing the construction industry and achieving global climate goals.
Solution
Carbon Upcycling addresses the carbon footprint of cement production by transforming industrial byproducts and natural materials into carbon-sequestering cement replacements. Their patented technology platform chemically activates materials like steel slags, coal ash, and mineral tailings with CO2, enabling them to act as carbon sponges while creating a useful end product. This process sequesters CO2 and produces blended cement that can reduce carbon emissions by up to two-thirds compared to conventional cement. The technology is designed to integrate directly at cement plants, utilizing CO2 from concentrations ranging from 4% to 99% without pretreatment, and operates on an all-electric system capable of switching on and off based on the carbon intensity of the power used.
Target Audience
The primary customers are cement and concrete producers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and improve the performance of their products, as well as companies in hard-to-abate sectors like steel and mining.
Features
- Patented technology platform for transforming industrial byproducts into carbon-sequestering cement replacements
- Chemical activation of materials with CO2 to create blended cements with reduced carbon emissions
- Integration at cement plants, utilizing CO2 from concentrations ranging from 4% to 99% without pretreatment
- All-electric system capable of switching on and off based on the carbon intensity of the power used
- Production of a dry product, enabling integration at cement plants rather than concrete plants
- Enhanced materials that cut cement emissions and capture carbon
- Acceleration of carbon mineralization, transforming CO2 into solid carbonate rock in hours