In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a team of researchers from Chiang Mai University has made a significant breakthrough. Led by Pitiwat Wattanachai from the Department of Civil Engineering, the team has developed a non-Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) binder that not only reduces carbon emissions but also captures CO2, offering a promising alternative for the construction industry.
The innovative binder incorporates high volumes of fly ash, limestone powder, gibbsite powder, and biomass ash (BA). This combination addresses two critical issues in the construction sector: the high carbon footprint of OPC production and the need for effective CO2 sequestration. “Our goal was to create a binder that could reduce the reliance on cement while also contributing to carbon capture,” Wattanachai explained. “The results have been encouraging, showing that this binder can enhance workability and strength while actively absorbing CO2.”
The research, published in Scientific Reports (translated from Thai as ‘Scientific Reports’), demonstrates that low biomass ash content improves the flowability of the mixture, making it easier to work with. Conversely, higher biomass ash content boosts compressive strength, reaching up to 29 MPa at 56 days. This strength is achieved through pozzolanic reactions and the formation of carboaluminate phases, which are crucial for the binder’s structural integrity.
One of the most exciting findings is the binder’s ability to sequester CO2. The high alkalinity of biomass ash enhances CO2 absorption, with the highest uptake observed at 15% biomass ash content. This feature is particularly relevant for the energy sector, which is increasingly looking for ways to offset its carbon emissions. “The potential for CO2 capture makes this binder an attractive option for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint,” Wattanachai noted.
The study also confirms the active pozzolanic reactions and calcium aluminate formations through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). These analyses provide a deeper understanding of the binder’s chemical processes, paving the way for further optimizations and applications.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the construction industry continues to seek sustainable alternatives to OPC, this non-OPC binder offers a viable solution. Its ability to capture CO2 adds an additional layer of environmental benefit, making it an attractive option for green building projects. Moreover, the use of fly ash, limestone powder, gibbsite powder, and biomass ash leverages industrial by-products, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.
Looking ahead, this research could shape future developments in the field by inspiring further innovations in sustainable construction materials. The success of this non-OPC binder highlights the potential of alternative binders and encourages more research into similar technologies. As the demand for eco-friendly construction solutions grows, this binder could play a significant role in reducing the industry’s carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future.