New technology targets CO2 emissions in cement production

New technological developments are targeting the high carbon emissions associated with cement production. In Höver, Germany, a new membrane-based test facility has been commissioned to filter CO2 directly from flue gases. Developed by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, the plant aims to capture up to 10,000 tons of CO2 annually, with the long-term goal of removing up to 90 percent of emissions from the process.

Complementing these practical applications, research from ETH Zurich suggests that cement production could potentially become carbon negative. The study indicates that combining clean electricity with calcium looping systems and direct air capture could allow cement kilns to absorb more atmospheric carbon dioxide than they generate. However, researchers noted that the success of this approach depends on the future decarbonization of the electricity grid and the widespread deployment of these technologies.