Global research network brings together leading industry players and scientific institutions
CRH is among 30 leading players from the cement and concrete industry globally that have come together with 40 of the world’s leading scientific and academic institutions to collaborate on identifying and developing innovative new technologies to help the cement and concrete sector decarbonise and produce carbon neutral concrete by 2050.
Known as Innovandi, the research network is part of the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) and brings together academia and industry to collaborate on fundamental research, in areas such as new clinkers and calcinated clays.
The initiative concentrates on breakthrough products and processes including new ways to produce cement and concrete along with opportunities for carbon capture and utilisation. It also focuses on product innovation and the development of alternative binders and new mixtures to reduce emissions during cement production.
This month, Innovandi has launched a new programme aimed at bringing start-ups together with established industry players to accelerate the development of innovative new technologies.
Start-ups have been invited to pitch solutions to key challenges for the industry that require advanced technology, support and investment and which will have a significant impact on the industry’s ability to provide the world with net-zero concrete by 2050.
The challenge areas include carbon capture technologies, calcination technologies – for heating materials during the clinker manufacturing process – carbon use in the construction supply chain and improved recycling of concrete.
The industry’s decarbonising mission is vital because the world will need concrete to meet the challenges it faces, including providing safe homes, cities, and a sustainable built environment. Population growth and urbanisation will also mean a greater requirement for critical infrastructure to support resilient communities around the world as well as the global shift to clean and renewable energy such as wind and hydropower.
The cement and concrete industry’s ambitious decarbonisation goal will require significant and complex changes in how it manufactures, uses and recycles concrete. Innovation will be crucial at every stage, from new cement and concrete chemistries to kiln technologies, clinker production, and carbon capture. The Innovandi Open Challenge will help ensure the industry brings the creativity of the best minds from outside the industry to help accelerate progress towards net-zero concrete.