Innovations in Carbon Negative Cement
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
21. Cement-Based Material with Integrated CO2 Capture via Chemical Absorbent and Hydration Reaction
HUNAN UNIVERSITY, Hunan University, 2023
Enhancing CO2 sequestration in cement-based materials through a chemical absorption process that integrates CO2 capture with cement hydration. The process utilizes a chemical absorbent that selectively captures CO2 from the cement hydration reaction, forming a weakly bound intermediate compound. This intermediate is then converted into a stable, CO2-enriched solid through desorption, enabling the regeneration and recycling of the absorption solvent. The resulting solid enhances cement properties while maintaining CO2 capture efficiency, overcoming traditional absorption limitations in cement-based materials.
22. Activated Concrete Powder with Carbonization and Synergistic Activation of Waste Concrete for CO2 Capture
UNIV ANHUI SCI & TECHNOLOGY, 2022
Activated concrete powder for carbon dioxide capture and concrete production, comprising waste concrete powder as a carbon dioxide absorber. The powder is prepared through a controlled carbonization process that converts waste concrete into a solidified matrix, where the waste concrete's calcium-rich and alkali-rich properties are utilized to capture carbon dioxide. The powder is then modified through a synergistic activation process that combines mechanical grinding and alkaline solid matter activation to enhance its carbon dioxide absorption capacity and improve the mechanical properties of the resulting concrete products.
23. Cementitious Material with Recycled Concrete Powder and Biochar Featuring Controlled Regeneration and Directional Induction Sintering
SOUTH CHINA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, South China University of Technology, 2022
High carbon absorption early strength cementitious material based on recycled concrete powder and biochar, with enhanced carbonation potential through controlled regeneration and biochar integration. The material combines the high calcium content of recycled concrete with biochar, enabling efficient carbon absorption through percolation networks. The controlled regeneration process regulates the ratio of concrete powder to biochar, while the directional induction heating and cooling system optimizes the sintering process. The resulting material exhibits improved early strength development and carbon absorption compared to conventional cement-based materials.
24. Cement-Based Matrix with Fly Ash and Basalt for Enhanced Mechanical Properties and CO2 Absorption
UNIV TAIYUAN TECHNOLOGY, 2022
A cement-based filling material that simultaneously enhances mechanical properties and carbon dioxide absorption. The material comprises a cement-based matrix with supplementary materials such as fly ash and basalt, which are combined in specific mass ratios to achieve optimal compressive strength while incorporating enhanced carbon dioxide absorption capabilities. This filling material can be used in coal mining applications where maintaining both mechanical integrity and CO2 sequestration is critical.
25. Method for CO2 Sequestration in Concrete Using Fly Ash Ceramsite Filter Balls with Cationic Surfactant-Enhanced Absorption
BEIJING JINXIU NEW TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CO LTD, 2022
A method for sequestering CO2 in concrete through a novel approach utilizing fly ash ceramsite filter balls. The ceramsite filter balls, comprising fly ash, cement, clay, lime, and mineral soil, are processed to create a high-capacity filter medium. When CO2 is introduced into the filter medium, it rapidly absorbs through the pores, with enhanced absorption rates achieved through the use of cationic surfactants. The resulting filter medium can be mixed with cement to produce a mineralized concrete with improved CO2 storage capacity. This approach addresses the limitations of traditional CO2 capture methods, enabling more efficient and cost-effective CO2 sequestration in concrete structures.
26. Method for Integrating CO2-Containing Water in Cementitious Mixtures for Controlled Carbonation
CRH CANADA GROUP INC, 2021
A method for controlled CO2 sequestration in concrete through a novel approach that integrates CO2-containing water with cementitious materials during the concrete production process. The method employs a specially formulated concrete mixture that contains a controlled concentration of CO2-containing water, enabling targeted chemical reactions between cement hydration products and CO2-based compounds. This controlled CO2 sequestration enables the production of carbonated concrete with enhanced properties, including improved strength and durability, while maintaining the structural integrity of the concrete.
27. Method for Carbon Capture via High-Temperature Reaction of Cement-Based Materials with CO2
TAIHEIYO CEMENT CORP, 2021
A method for efficient carbon capture using cement-based materials through a controlled reaction process. The process involves introducing high-temperature CO2-rich gas into a reaction vessel containing cement-based materials, where the CO2 reacts with the cement to form stable calcium carbonate. The reaction temperature is precisely controlled between 400°C and 700°C, enabling rapid CO2 capture while minimizing emissions. The cement-based materials can be reused after the reaction, making the process more environmentally friendly than traditional carbon capture methods.
28. Method and Device for High-Temperature CO2 Absorption Using Cement-Based Material Reaction
GENOME PHARMACEUTICALS INSTITUTE CO LTD, 2021
Method and device for rapidly absorbing high-temperature carbon dioxide emissions from industrial sources through controlled reaction with cement-based materials. The process involves reacting industrial waste gases containing CO2 with cement-based materials at elevated temperatures (40-200°C) while maintaining optimal water content conditions. This controlled reaction enables rapid absorption of CO2 without requiring traditional carbonization methods, while simultaneously utilizing the generated waste heat to improve cement-based material performance.
29. Cement-Based Material with Active Calcium and Magnesium for CO2 Absorption in High-Temperature, High-Humidity Conditions
TAIHEIYO CEMENT CORP, 2021
Cement-based materials containing active calcium and magnesium elements rapidly absorb industrial CO2 through a controlled high-temperature and high-humidity environment. The CO2 reacts with the cement to form stable carbonates, effectively capturing and utilizing CO2 emissions. The process is optimized by maintaining optimal CO2 concentrations within 20-70% water vapor content, creating a synergistic reaction that enhances the absorption efficiency of CO2. This innovative method addresses the need for more effective CO2 capture solutions in cement-based materials while reducing the environmental impact of traditional carbon capture technologies.
30. Concrete Composition with Controlled Carbonation of Calcium Carbonate
FUJITA CORP, 2020
Concrete with enhanced carbonation resistance through controlled carbonation of calcium carbonate. The method involves mixing cement with water and a controlled amount of CO2 to form a cement-carbonate mixture. This mixture is then mixed with a second cement-carbonate mixture, with the carbonation process occurring simultaneously. The resulting concrete exhibits superior carbonation resistance compared to conventional carbonated concrete due to the controlled incorporation of calcium carbonate.
31. Concrete Production Method with Controlled Hydration and Reversible CO2 Adsorption
FUJITA CO LTD, 2020
Concrete production method that effectively immobilizes carbon dioxide during hydration of cement. The method involves forming a first cement-water mixture, adding carbon dioxide to the mixture, and then curing the resulting concrete. The curing process maintains a controlled water content where the amount of unhydrated cement remains below 50% of the total weight. This controlled hydration environment prevents excessive cement hydration while maintaining the structural integrity of the concrete. The method incorporates a reversible carbon dioxide adsorption material that selectively captures CO2, allowing precise control over the immobilization process.
32. Cement Composition with CO2 Capture Byproducts and Microwave-Assisted Drying Process
NOVIL, Nobile, DAEWOO ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION CO LTD, 2018
Carbon dioxide storage cement composition and manufacturing method that utilizes CO2 capture byproducts to store CO2. The composition comprises cement, CO2 capture byproducts, and an alkali admixture. The cement manufacturing process involves capturing CO2 through a reaction tower, capturing the CO2, and mixing the captured CO2 with cement. The captured CO2 is then processed using a microwave dryer to produce a powder, which is then mixed with cement to produce the storage cement. The cement manufacturing process includes collecting the captured CO2, adding the CO2 capture byproducts, and drying the resulting powder.
33. Concrete Composition with CO2-Soluble Calcium Carbonate, Slag, and Vanadium Dioxide for Enhanced Flowability and Thermal Insulation
DAEWOO ENG & CONSTR CO LTD, 2018
Low-power high-flowable concrete composition containing carbon dioxide-containing calcium carbonate that enables construction of large-scale infrastructure structures while minimizing cement usage. The composition incorporates CO2-soluble calcium carbonate and slag, which replaces cement to achieve enhanced fluidity without compromising strength. The composition also incorporates lithium silicate, anionic surfactants, and vanadium dioxide to maintain high flowability and strength properties. The vanadium dioxide thermally denatures during service, providing a long-lasting thermal insulation effect that compensates for the lower molecular weight of the cement.
34. Concrete Composition with Fine Blast Furnace Slag and Fly Ash for Reinforced Polymerization Reactions
DAEWOO ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION CO LTD, 대우건설, 2016
Concrete composition for carbon dioxide reduction that improves early strength and enhances resistance to cracking through the use of industrial by-products like fine blast furnace slag powder. The composition replaces a significant portion of cement with BFS and FA, achieving significant CO2 reduction while simultaneously enhancing early strength and crack resistance through the addition of reinforcing fibers. The BFS and FA components undergo controlled polymerization reactions at room temperature, resulting in enhanced mechanical properties without requiring high-temperature curing. The composition also incorporates a water-reducing agent and anti-foaming agent to improve workability and durability.
35. Cement Binder Composition with Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Carbonate for Controlled Carbonate Formation
CALIX LTD, 2015
Cement binder composition for construction applications that achieves net CO2 emissions of 0.59 tonnes per tonne of binder, significantly reducing the industry's carbon footprint. The binder consists of a dry powder comprising magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) with specific ratios, with optional chloride salt for enhanced chloride absorption. The composition incorporates superplasticizers to improve workability, while the carbonate phases absorb CO2 during hydration. The binder's unique combination of magnesium oxide and magnesium carbonate enables controlled carbonate formation, reducing the formation of the Mg(OH)2 film that impairs hydration.
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