In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a groundbreaking study led by David Bastos from the c5Lab—Sustainable Construction Materials Association in Portugal, has unveiled a novel approach to enhance CO2 sequestration in recycled aggregates (RAs). This research, published in the journal ‘Waste’ (translated as ‘Waste’ in English), not only promises to extend the life cycle of construction and demolition waste (CDW) but also offers a significant stride towards the decarbonization of the construction industry.
The study focuses on the incorporation of an amine-based additive, specifically 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), to boost CO2 capture in recycled aggregates. “We aimed to transform low-quality CDW into a highly reactive CO2 capture material,” explains Bastos. The research team employed advanced analytical techniques, including Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy with Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR), and a combination of both (TG-FTIR), to validate the use of RA materials as a support medium and quantify the CO2 capture potential.
The results are promising, with the AMPD amine demonstrating a 12% CO2 capture potential. This dual valorization approach not only adds new value to low-quality CDW but also enhances CO2 sequestration, offering a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable future. “This research opens up new possibilities for the construction industry to contribute to the energy sector’s decarbonization goals,” Bastos adds.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By enhancing the CO2 capture potential of recycled aggregates, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This innovative approach could pave the way for the development of new, sustainable construction materials that are not only eco-friendly but also economically viable. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, such advancements in the field of sustainable construction materials are more crucial than ever.
This study, published in ‘Waste’, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in driving innovation and sustainability in the construction industry. As we move towards a low-carbon future, the integration of advanced technologies and sustainable practices will be key to achieving our environmental goals. The research led by David Bastos and his team at c5Lab is a testament to the power of innovation in shaping a sustainable future for the construction industry and the energy sector at large.