Net Zero Industry Tracker 2024 Cement

Technology pathway 1: CCUS The calcination process in cement production, responsible for 60-65% of its CO2 emissions, is an unavoidable chemical reaction, making CCUS essential to capture these emissions at the source. In the cement industry, CCUS is progressing through varying stages of maturity, with post- combustion capture technologies being the closest to commercialization (TRL 7-8).373 These technologies (e.g. amine-based solvents) have been demonstrated at pilot and large-scale levels, though challenges remain in cost and scalability. Oxy-fuel combustion (TRL 6-7) and direct separation technologies (TRL 4-6) are still under development, while CO2 utilization pathways (TRL 3-7) are progressing, particularly in concrete curing.374 Sequestration, already commercially viable (TRL 8-9), provides an immediate storage solution. However, broad adoption will depend on overcoming technical, financial and regulatory challenges.375 Furthermore, recarbonation in cement allows concrete to absorb 5-10% of the CO2 emitted during production, and an additional 5-10% may be taken up during the secondary or recycled lifetime, offering a modest reduction in the material’s overall carbon footprint.376 Technology pathway 2: SCMs and material efficiency Material efficiency and SCMs in the cement industry focus on reducing the amount of clinker (the primary source of CO2 emissions) by using alternative materials like fly ash, slag and natural pozzolans. These technologies are relatively mature, with SCMs having a high TRL (TRL 7-9),377 and are already commercially available in many markets. Material efficiency strategies, such as optimizing mix designs and improving process efficiency, are also well- established (TRL 7-9).378 While SCM technologies are commercially viable, their broader adoption is constrained by limited availability of high-quality SCMs, especially as demand increases, and the need for standardized performance testing. Technology pathway 3: Bioenergy and renewables Bioenergy and renewable energy technology in the cement industry focuses on integrating sustainable energy sources, such as biomass and waste-derived fuels, to reduce fossil-fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions. The TRL for these solutions is generally around TRL 5-6,379 indicating that while the technologies are in the development and testing phases, they are not yet widely commercially available. Biomass co-firing and the use of waste fuels are being piloted in some cement plants, demonstrating their feasibility but requiring further validation and optimization for broader application. Similarly, integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind power is still in the early stages, with limited deployment and ongoing research to assess their full potential for cement manufacturing. Net-Zero Industry Tracker: 2024 Edition 7