Polymer Cement: to save 2% global CO2

Polymer cement could save more than 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions – but who is talking about it?

What is polymer cement

Polymer cement is made by adding different materials to cement, to make new kinds of concrete which save huge amounts of energy.

How it works

Polymer cement can be produced using 40% less energy per ton than ordinary cement.  In many cases these new concrete polymers are also lighter (less transport costs) and have better insulating properties. A common ingredient is ash from coal-fired power stations.

Why it matters

7% of all carbon emissions globally come from making and using traditional cement.  Here is a way to save 2-3% of all carbon emissions world-wide – reducing up to 10% of the total energy used to construct new buildings.

Half of the CO2 is created in energy used in making cement, and the other half is the gas which is released in a chemical reaction with water, added during construction. A ton of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere for every ton of cement used.

Challenges

We need more research into the long term strength of polymer cement.   We need to be certain that it is safe to use in safety-critical situations – for example in high-rise office blocks or to build huge bridges.

Business opportunities

Expect sales of more than £5bn a year across the EU alone – total sold as premixed concrete.  Growth of the market could accelerate dramatically if building regulations change in some nations requiring polymer concrete to be used wherever possible.  The construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce energy consumption, and polymer cement is an easy way to do so.

It is hard to develop strong patents for polymer concrete processes so competition is likely to be strong from every existing concrete manufacturer who will adapt rapidly to this new market.

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