Fly-ash, limestone seek to replace clinker in cement manufacturing

By Guardian Correspondent , The Guardian
Published at 11:13 AM Nov 22 2024
Green cement incorporates industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, or limestone as partial replacements for clinker.
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Green cement incorporates industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, or limestone as partial replacements for clinker.

Green Cement demand, globally, is estimated at US$38.5 billion in 2024, up from US$35 billion in 2023, and projected to post a CAGR of 10.1 percent between 2024 and 2030 to reach US$68.6 billion by 2030, according to the new report by ResearchAndMarkets.com.

In contrast to conventional Portland cement, green cement employs innovative technologies and processes that lower carbon emissions and energy use. 

Green cement frequently incorporates industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, or limestone as partial replacements for clinker, which is the main component of traditional cement. 

The primary goal of green cement is to lessen carbon dioxide emissions while preserving the structural integrity and performance standards necessary for construction projects.

The Green Cement market is primarily driven by several key factors, including the rising demand for sustainable construction materials as environmental concerns intensify. 

“Increasing regulatory pressures aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices have compelled manufacturers to innovate and adopt greener technologies,” the report notes. 

The growth of the construction industry, particularly in developing regions, further accelerates the need for sustainable building solutions. 

Additionally, the heightened awareness among consumers and businesses regarding climate change has led to a preference for low-carbon alternatives in construction projects.

Technological advancements in production processes, which enhance the efficiency and performance of green cement, also play a crucial role in driving market growth. 

Lastly, the incorporation of industrial by-products as substitutes for traditional materials not only reduces waste but also contributes to cost-effectiveness, making green cement an attractive option for builders and developers.

Fly Ash based green cement is the leading Product Type in the Green Cement market, with an estimated share of 42.3 percent in 2024, owing to its environmental benefits, cost-effectiveness, and widespread availability. 

Fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion in power plants, is repurposed in cement production, reducing the need for traditional clinker and lowering carbon emissions. 

This makes it a more sustainable option compared to conventional cement, aligning with growing global efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of construction materials.

Fly Ash based green cement is also expected to record the fastest CAGR of 9.4 percent during the 2024-2030 forecast period as it exhibits improved durability, workability, and strength compared to conventional cement, making it an attractive option for various construction applications. 

Furthermore, the increasing availability of fly ash, particularly in regions with active coal industries, coupled with growing regulatory support and market demand for eco-friendly construction materials, propels its rapid adoption in the building sector.

North America region holds the dominant position in the Green Cement market, accounting for 40.4 percent in 2024, due to strong regulatory support, environmental awareness, and the region's commitment to reducing carbon emissions in construction. 

The US and Canada have implemented stringent regulations on carbon emissions and are promoting sustainable building practices through incentives and green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). 

This drives the demand for eco-friendly construction materials, including green cement. The Asia-Pacific region is projected to be the fastest-growing market, with a CAGR of 11.6 percent during the forecast period 2024-2030.

This growth is driven by factors such as rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and growing environmental awareness across countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. 

As these countries experience massive construction booms to support population growth and economic development, there is increasing pressure to adopt sustainable building practices to reduce the environmental impact.

The Commercial sector led the market with a 47.3 percent share in 2024 due to a strong emphasis on sustainability, corporate responsibility, and the desire to meet regulatory requirements regarding carbon emissions and energy efficiency. 

Businesses and developers are increasingly recognizing the importance of incorporating eco-friendly materials in their construction projects to enhance their brand image and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. 

Green cement, with its reduced carbon footprint and the use of alternative materials, aligns with the growing demand for sustainable commercial spaces, including offices, retail establishments, and warehouses.

On the other hand, the residential sector is expected to register the fastest CAGR of 8.7 percent during the forecast period 2024-2030, due to the increasing consumer awareness of sustainability and the desire for eco-friendly living spaces. 

Homeowners and builders are increasingly prioritizing sustainable materials and energy-efficient construction practices to reduce their environmental impact and create healthier living environments.