In our previous article, we discussed “green steel” in which researchers are trying to make steel out of hydrogen rather than coal. And now, we would also like to discuss the possibility of “green concrete” for your steel shed project.
But first, did you know that cement production is the world’s biggest cause of carbon pollution? Yes, it is responsible for 8% of global emissions. According to the Cement Industry Federation, the Australian cement industry has long recognised the challenge that climate change poses to our natural environment and is committed to making significant reductions in CO2 emissions associated with cement production in Australia.
From an article published by ABC News, researchers from Murdoch University in Western Australia have developed “green concrete” called Colliecrete. Its main component is fly ash, waste from coal-powered stations.
“Colliecrete concrete can use up to 80 to 90 percent of recycled material as its cement component,” laboratory assistant Ramon Skane said.
Hendrik Gildenhuys and Ramon Skane have created a concrete mix from a range of recycled products. (ABC South West: Kate Stephens)
Colliecrete is a form of geopolymer concrete. It has been developed in other areas of Australia and has been used in projects from pavements to international airports.
On the other hand, researchers from the University of Sydney have also created an environment friendly, CO2 loaded cement mixed with fly ash and other waste materials such as ground glass and gaseous carbon dioxide.
On their trial “eco-pavement”, it has saved 752kg of sand from being dredged and 327kg of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere.
When implemented on a larger scale, greater environmental benefits could be realised according to the researchers. Two eco-pavements are also being planned to be installed on their University campus.
Continuous observation and monitoring will be implemented with the hope that it could be an answer to a more eco-friendly alternative for concrete. Which could also be introduced and be commercialised to the market.
Could this be possible? Would you use it as an alternative to traditional concrete on your shed project? How much more might you be prepared to pay for green concrete? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
References:
ABC News
The University of Sydney
Beyond Zero Emissions
Cement Industry Federation
