May 31, 2011

Japanese Utility Develops Zero-or-Less-CO2 Concrete

Chugoku Electric Power Co. in Japan has developed a new type of concrete, the first of its kind in the world, that produces in effect zero or less carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during the manufacturing process. It is hardened by absorbing CO2 emitted from a thermal power station. This new type of concrete contains a special additive which hardens concrete by absorbing CO2, and thus substantially reduces the amount of cement used. Thanks to using less cement, cement production-related CO2 emissions can be halved compared to a conventional type. Moreover, the absorption of CO2 can compensate for, or even exceed, the amount of CO2 emitted during the manufacturing process.  Read full at Japan for Sustainability