Lowering concrete emissions – our net zero journey
Concrete is an important material for the manufacture of ground bearing slabs and prefabricated basements. There are CO2 emissions associated with the chemical process and the energy required. Over the past year we have been working with suppliers to investigate the use of low emission concrete. What does this mean?
Low emissions concrete is made by incorporating various strategies and alternative materials to reduce the associated carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Here are some key methods:
Alternative binders: Replacing some of the Portland Cement (the primary binder in conventional concrete) with alternative binders such as fly ash, slag or silica fume. These materials often have lower CO2 emissions during production.
Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs), such as pozzolans or industrial by-products, are used to partially replace cement. This reduces the amount of clinker (a key component of cement) needed, thereby reducing CO2 emissions.
Green aggregates: Choose recycled or locally sourced aggregates to reduce the environmental impact associated with the transport and extraction of natural aggregates.
Optimised mix designs: Develop concrete mix designs that achieve the desired performance with the least amount of cement, minimising CO2 emissions.
Energy efficiency: Improving the energy efficiency of the production process, such as the use of renewable energy sources in cement production. Read our article on how Glatthaar has reduced emissions at its manufacturing facilities.
By combining these methods, low carbon concrete aims to provide a more sustainable alternative. Please contact us if this is relevant to your basement or ground bearing slab, as we can help make your project more sustainable.
