Conventional cement production generates approximately 0.9 tons of CO2 per ton of cement produced, accounting for 8% of global CO2 emissions. Recent measurements show that introducing CO2-absorbing agents and modified mixing sequences can transform cement from a carbon source to a carbon sink, with absorption capacities reaching up to 0.4 tons of CO2 per ton of cement when utilizing specialized admixtures and controlled curing conditions.

The fundamental challenge lies in developing cement formulations that can actively sequester carbon while maintaining the structural integrity and durability requirements essential for construction applications.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including bacterial glycocalyx formation on aggregate particles, CO2-absorbing liquid penetration systems, micro-nano bubble integration, and waste concrete fines repurposing. These and other approaches demonstrate practical pathways to achieve carbon-negative cement production while meeting or exceeding traditional performance standards.

1. Method for Carbon Dioxide Immobilization in Mature Cement Using Adsorbent-Infused Absorption Liquid

SHIMIZU CORP, 2025

A method for immobilizing carbon dioxide in mature cement structures through controlled absorption by a carbon dioxide-absorbing liquid containing a carbon dioxide adsorbent. The method involves impregnating a mature cement body with the absorption liquid, which supports the adsorbent within the cement matrix. The absorption liquid is formulated with a carbon dioxide adsorbent that can effectively penetrate the cement structure, allowing carbon dioxide to be immobilized through physical adsorption. The method enables carbon dioxide immobilization even on existing mature cement structures, without requiring additional materials or surface treatments.

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2. Cement Composition with Integrated CO2-Absorbing Liquid for Stable Carbonate Formation

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION HOKKAIDO UNIVERSITY, 2025

Cement composition and hardened cement product for carbon dioxide fixation that prevents leakage through concrete structures. The composition comprises a cement composition and a carbon dioxide-absorbing liquid containing a carbon dioxide absorbent. The composition is mixed with the absorbent, which is supported by the cement composition during hardening, to create a hardened cement body. When the hardened cement body is brought into contact with air, the absorbent reacts with CO2 to form a stable carbonate phase that is immobilized within the cement structure. This approach ensures the fixation of CO2 within the hardened cement body without compromising its structural integrity.

3. Concrete Composition with CO2-Absorbing Bacteria Forming Glycocalyx on Aggregate Particles

KYONGGI UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY AND ACADEMIA COOPERATION FOUNDATION, 2024

Concrete composition and coating containing bacteria that absorb CO2 through a glycocalyx mechanism, enabling CO2-neutral concrete production. The composition comprises cement-based binder, aggregate, and microorganisms that form a glycocalyx on aggregate particles, which absorb CO2 from the air. The coating includes the cement-based binder, aggregate, and microorganisms, with fiber reinforcement. This technology enables CO2-neutral concrete while maintaining structural integrity.

4. Concrete Composition with Waste Concrete Fines as Cement Substitute via Carbon Dioxide Adsorption

DONGKWANG RECYCLING CO LTD, 2024

Concrete incorporating waste concrete fines as a cement substitute through carbon dioxide adsorption, achieving enhanced durability and environmental benefits. The process involves recycling waste concrete from demolished structures, specifically electric poles, into a fine powder with high carbon dioxide adsorption capacity. The powdered material is then mixed with cement and water to form a concrete with improved mechanical properties, enabling enhanced durability and resistance to environmental degradation. The adsorption capability enables the concrete to absorb CO2, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining structural integrity.

5. Sequential Layer Application Method Using CO2-Absorbing and CO2-Fixing Materials for Concrete Pavement Repair

SUMITOMO OSAKA CEMENT CO LTD, 2024

A method for repairing and consolidating concrete pavements through a sequential application of CO2-absorbing and CO2-fixing layers. The process involves laying a first layer of CO2-absorbing material, followed by a second layer of CO2-fixing material, and repeating this process until a desired thickness is achieved. The CO2-absorbing layer absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere, while the CO2-fixing layer incorporates CO2 into the concrete structure. This dual-action approach enables the creation of a durable, CO2-absorbing and CO2-fixing layer that can be used for pavement repair and consolidation.

6. Method for CO2 Immobilization in Concrete via Absorbent-Infused Liquid Penetration

UNIV HOKKAIDO NAT UNIV CORP, 2024

A method for immobilizing carbon dioxide in existing concrete structures through controlled absorption within the concrete matrix. The method involves impregnating the concrete with a carbon dioxide-absorbing liquid containing a carbon dioxide absorbent, which then penetrates the concrete pores to support the absorbent. The concrete is then exposed to air, where the absorbed CO2 is immobilized through chemical reactions with the absorbent. This integrated approach enables the controlled release of CO2 from the concrete without requiring separate CO2 capture systems.

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7. Carbon Dioxide Absorption-Reactive Admixture with Sodium Acetate and Sodium Thiocyanate

주식회사 위드엠텍, 2024

Carbon dioxide absorption-reactive admixture for carbonation curing, manufacturing method thereof, and mortar product using the admixture. The admixture includes a reaction stimulant and a carbon absorbent, wherein the reaction stimulant is an aqueous sodium acetate solution mixed with a weak acid, sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide aqueous solution and dried. It is pulverized, and the carbon absorbent is sodium thiocyanate and CO with an amine group. The admixture exhibits excellent effects in absorbing carbon dioxide and developing the strength of the mortar, and a preferred form of the admixture.

8. Concrete Matrix with Integrated CO2-Absorbing Agents and Hollow Glass Beads

CHINA BUILDING MAT GROUP CO LTD, 2024

A low-carbon concrete that captures CO2 through comprehensive absorption of all its components, enabling carbon neutrality or even negative carbon emissions. The innovative approach integrates multiple CO2-absorbing agents, including solid carbon dioxide, into the concrete matrix, maximizing absorption through synergistic interactions. The preparation method incorporates hollow glass beads and an aqueous solution that enhances CO2 capture, while the aggregate and sand components are optimized for enhanced absorption. This comprehensive approach enables the production of low-carbon concrete with superior durability performance compared to traditional carbon-neutral concrete solutions.

9. Concrete Composition with Controlled Sequence Mixing of Cementitious Materials and Additives for Enhanced Durability and Compressive Strength

ZHEJIANG GUANGTIAN COMPONENT GROUP CO LTD, 2024

High-efficiency anti-carbonation concrete with enhanced durability and compressive strength. The concrete combines cement, fly ash, mineral powder, medium sand, gravel, and a specific additive in a controlled sequence to prevent carbonation while maintaining compressive strength. The preparation process involves mixing the components, followed by reinforcement and anti-carbonation agents, and final curing. The resulting concrete exhibits superior resistance to carbonation and early degradation, enabling reliable structural integrity in reinforced concrete applications.

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10. Concrete Mixture with Integrated Micro-Nano Carbon Dioxide Bubbles for Carbon Fixation

CHINA WEST CONSTRUCTION GROUP BEIFANG CO LTD, 2024

Carbon-absorbing and carbon-fixing concrete through a novel approach that integrates micro-nano carbon dioxide bubbles into the concrete mixture. The bubbles, comprising carbon dioxide and sodium hydroxide, are incorporated into the concrete through a unique mixing process that creates a supersaturated solution containing high concentrations of carbon dioxide. This supersaturated solution reacts with sodium hydroxide to form sodium carbonate, creating a stable carbon dioxide-rich environment within the concrete. The supersaturated solution is then incorporated into the concrete mixture, where it reacts with sodium hydroxide to form sodium carbonate, effectively fixing carbon dioxide within the concrete structure.

11. Gelling Material Comprising Calcined Red Mud and Polymer Additive

CHINA WEST CONTRUCTION GROUP BEIFANG CO LTD, 2023

A gelling material that absorbs carbon dioxide through a novel preparation method. The material is prepared by calcining red mud at high temperature (600°C) for a specific duration, followed by the addition of a controlled amount of a specific polymer. This process enables the production of a gelling material with enhanced CO2 absorption capabilities, while maintaining its structural integrity and mechanical properties. The material can be used as a supplementary cementitious material in concrete applications, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional carbon capture technologies.

12. Cement Compositions with Pozzolanic and Porous Inorganic Materials and Metal Oxide for CO2 Incorporation

CARBON LIMIT CO, 2023

Cement compositions that capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, enabling direct incorporation of CO2 into concrete structures. The compositions comprise a pozzolanic material, a porous inorganic material, and a metal oxide. The pozzolanic material, typically containing silica and/or carbonate, provides the primary binding mechanism, while the porous inorganic material enhances CO2 absorption. The metal oxide, typically containing iron or calcium, facilitates the chemical reaction between CO2 and the cement matrix. The resulting concrete can be incorporated into structures, including roads, bridges, and buildings, to sequester atmospheric CO2.

13. Cement Composition with CO2 Absorbing Material and Regenerative Absorption Mechanism

KASHIMA ROAD CO LTD, 2023

Cement-based concrete that can absorb and release CO2 through a novel absorption mechanism. The cement contains a material that selectively absorbs CO2, enabling continuous CO2 absorption even after initial release. This material is incorporated into the cement composition and can be regenerated through controlled release processes. The cement exhibits superior thermal stability compared to conventional concrete, with enhanced mechanical properties and durability. The CO2 absorption mechanism allows the cement to maintain its carbon dioxide absorption capacity even after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, making it suitable for applications requiring CO2 neutralization.

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14. Concrete Admixture with Composite Anti-Cracking Agent and CO2 Adsorption Fixative for Carbonation Resistance

江苏中建商品混凝土有限公司, 2023

Admixture for concrete that improves anti-carbonation performance by reducing concrete carbonation depth. The admixture contains a solid component made of a composite anti-cracking agent and CO2 adsorption fixative, mixed in concrete at 10-15% of cementitious material. It also contains a liquid component brushed on concrete, containing a carbon mineralization inducer. The solid component densifies concrete pores to reduce CO2 penetration, while the liquid component absorbs CO2 on the surface to prevent it from reaching the concrete.

15. Permeable Concrete Incorporating Fly Ash and Calcium Carbide Slag with CaAl-LDH Formation for Enhanced CO2 Absorption

HUBEI UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, 2023

Permeable concrete with enhanced CO2 absorption capabilities through a synergistic approach involving multiple solid waste materials. The innovative preparation method integrates fly ash and calcium carbide slag into the cement matrix, where wet grinding and high-temperature treatment of the raw materials produces a CaAl-LDH (calcium aluminum hydrotalcite) suspension. This suspension enhances CO2 absorption by forming a stable, anion-exchangeable layer in the cement matrix, while its interaction with CO2 triggers a series of chemical reactions that further increase CO2 absorption capacity. The resulting permeable concrete exhibits improved mechanical properties and enhanced CO2 absorption performance compared to conventional pervious concrete.

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16. Foamed Concrete with Controlled Calcium Carbonate Crystal Formation Using Ketai Protein-Based Blowing Agent

SICHUAN MIANZHU AODONG CEMENT CO LTD, Sichuan Mianzhu Aodong Cement Co., Ltd., 2023

Foamed concrete with enhanced carbon sequestration properties through controlled calcium carbonate crystal formation. The concrete combines a foaming agent with a calcium carbonate crystal growth regulator to achieve superior carbon absorption and densification. This approach enables the concrete to achieve higher strength and adsorption capacity compared to conventional foamed concrete, while maintaining optimal workability and durability. The foaming agent is a Ketai animal protein-based blowing agent.

17. Concrete Carbonation Curing Using Lixiviant-Induced Calcium Ion Release

LIXIVIA INC, 2023

Carbonation curing of concrete by introducing a lixiviant compound that facilitates the release of calcium ions from calcium-containing minerals, enabling accelerated curing of the resulting carbonated concrete. The lixiviant, which can be a biologically derived organic amine, releases calcium ions from silicates and oxides, allowing the formation of calcium carbonate through reaction with CO2. This process enables carbonation curing at lower CO2 concentrations and pressures compared to traditional methods, while sequestering significant amounts of CO2. The lixiviant acts as a catalyst, enabling the use of small amounts of lixiviant relative to calcium content, and can be formulated to release calcium ions in substoichiometric amounts relative to the concrete mixture.

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18. Thermal Insulation Concrete Incorporating Zirconium Dioxide Aerogel with Nanoscale Pore Structure

Hangzhou Yuhang Hengli Concrete Co., Ltd., HANGZHOU YUHANG HENGLI CONCRETE CO LTD, 2023

Carbon-fixing thermal insulation concrete with enhanced thermal performance through the incorporation of zirconium dioxide aerogel, which replaces traditional air-entraining agents. The aerogel's nanoscale pores and low density significantly reduce thermal conductivity while maintaining mechanical properties. The concrete preparation involves sequential addition of the aerogel, reinforcing agent, foam stabilizer, and tricalcium silicate gel, followed by mixing with cement. The resulting composite exhibits superior thermal insulation performance compared to conventional foamed concrete while maintaining mechanical integrity.

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19. Artificial Stone Compositions with Carbonation-Enhanced Binder and Metal Oxide Filler for CO2 Capture

VELOCITY GREEN ENERGY INC, 2023

Artificial stone compositions that utilize a carbonation-enhanced binder to achieve superior CO2 capture rates. The compositions incorporate a filler comprising a metal oxide capable of mineral carbonation, such as olivine, which reacts with CO2 to form stable carbonates. The binder is a cement-based material, with the olivine filler forming a self-cementing layer that enhances the stone's durability. The compositions achieve CO2 capture rates of at least 10 kg/m3, making them suitable for applications requiring significant CO2 sequestration.

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20. Composition Surface Carbonation Method Using CO2 Absorption Agent in High-Concentration CO2 Channel

HYBRID PRESTRESSED CONCRETE OKINAWA CO LTD, 2023

Carbon dioxide fixation method for immobilizing CO2 on a surface of a composition in a high-concentration CO2 channel, where the composition is a material. The method involves fixing carbon dioxide on the surface of the composition through a carbonation reaction, utilizing a CO2 absorption agent that adheres to the composition's surface. The composition can be a material like steelmaking slag, shell, or aggregate for concrete, and the fixation agent enables controlled CO2 immobilization while maintaining the composition's structural integrity.

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21. Cement-Based Material with Integrated CO2 Capture via Chemical Absorbent and Hydration Reaction

22. Activated Concrete Powder with Carbonization and Synergistic Activation of Waste Concrete for CO2 Capture

23. Cementitious Material with Recycled Concrete Powder and Biochar Featuring Controlled Regeneration and Directional Induction Sintering

24. Cement-Based Matrix with Fly Ash and Basalt for Enhanced Mechanical Properties and CO2 Absorption

25. Method for CO2 Sequestration in Concrete Using Fly Ash Ceramsite Filter Balls with Cationic Surfactant-Enhanced Absorption

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