Japanese Breakthrough: Carbon-Negative Backfill for Green Ports

In a groundbreaking study published in the *Case Studies in Construction Materials* (translated from Japanese as “Construction Materials Case Studies”), researchers have demonstrated a novel approach to reducing carbon emissions in construction projects, with significant implications for the energy sector. The study, led by Sumire Nakamura of the Structural Engineering Department at the Port and Airport Research Institute in Japan, explores the use of a mixture of dredged soil (DS) and pre-carbonated steelmaking slag (SS), termed CCU-MDS, as a sustainable backfill material for port mooring facilities.

The research highlights the dual benefits of CCU-MDS: it not only supports a circular economy by repurposing dredged soil and steelmaking slag but also acts as a carbon capture and utilization (CCU) material, effectively sequestering CO2. “By incorporating pre-carbonated steelmaking slag into dredged soil, we can transform these materials into a valuable resource that contributes to carbon neutrality,” Nakamura explained.

The study found that the mechanical performance of CCU-MDS varied depending on the type of steelmaking slag used. However, the addition of ground granulated blast furnace slag successfully achieved the required strength for the target facility. Notably, the CCU-MDS formulation resulted in negative emissions during raw material production, with CO2 sequestration exceeding –30 kg-CO2/m3. This level of sequestration surpassed emissions from machinery operation during construction, leading to net-negative emissions below –20 kg-CO2/m3.

The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. By using CCU-MDS instead of conventional stone in port mooring facilities, the study found a reduction of up to 50% in total CO2 emissions across the entire construction project. “This research demonstrates that sustainable construction materials can play a pivotal role in reducing the carbon footprint of infrastructure projects,” Nakamura added.

The findings suggest that CCU-MDS could be a game-changer in the quest for carbon neutrality in the construction industry. As the energy sector increasingly focuses on sustainable practices, the adoption of such innovative materials could become a standard approach. The study’s success in achieving negative emissions highlights the potential for similar applications in other construction contexts, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

This research not only advances our understanding of sustainable construction materials but also offers a practical solution for reducing carbon emissions in large-scale projects. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the integration of CCU-MDS and similar technologies could become a cornerstone of sustainable development, driving the industry toward a greener and more efficient future.

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