In the relentless pursuit of sustainability, the cement and concrete industries are grappling with a dual challenge: decarbonization and the circular use of materials. As the world seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the quest for new, eco-friendly raw materials and binders has become increasingly urgent. This is where the innovative work of Arne Peys, a researcher at the Sustainable Materials division of VITO, comes into play.
Peys, along with his colleagues, has been delving into the vast, often overlooked world of mineral wastes. These wastes, produced in several gigatonnes per year globally, are not just environmental liabilities but potential goldmines for the construction industry. Many of these wastes have the right elemental and mineralogical profiles to be used as clinker raw feed or supplementary cementitious materials.
The potential is immense, but the path is not straightforward. “The published research on the topic is extensive, but it’s not organized,” Peys explains. “There’s a lack of a systematic, comprehensive approach, making valorisation challenging.” This is where the RILEM Technical Committee on Upcycling Mineral Wastes (TC UMW) steps in. The committee, led by Peys, aims to create a framework for upcycling these mineral wastes, focusing on using powders as either clinker raw feed or in other binder applications.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. The cement industry is a major energy consumer and CO2 emitter. By upcycling mineral wastes, the industry could significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to a more circular economy. This is not just about reducing waste; it’s about turning a liability into an asset, creating value from what was once considered valueless.
The work of TC UMW is not just about addressing an environmental issue; it’s about reshaping the future of the construction industry. By providing a systematic approach to upcycling mineral wastes, the committee could pave the way for new, low-carbon clinkers and supplementary cementitious materials. This could revolutionize the industry, making it more sustainable and resilient.
The research, published in the RILEM Technical Letters, which translates to RILEM Technical Letters in English, is a call to action. It’s a challenge to the industry to look at mineral wastes not as a problem, but as an opportunity. It’s a reminder that sustainability is not just about reducing harm; it’s about creating value. The future of the construction industry is not just about building; it’s about building better, building smarter, and building sustainably. And that future starts with upcycling mineral wastes.