Exploring Carbon Capture Concrete Printing for a More Sustainable Construction Industry

Building infrastructure is essential for development. However, the construction sector often relies on resource- and energy-intensive materials, contributing to a significant carbon footprint. To address this, researchers in Singapore have developed a carbon capture concrete printing method that can offer an alternative solution to reduce the carbon footprint of construction and promote sustainable practices in the industry.

Environmental Impacts of the Construction Sector

The construction processes and operations contribute to 37% of global energy emissions, making it a major driver of climate change.

One of the main reasons is the use of resource- and energy-intensive materials. Cement, a widely used material in building construction, requires heating limestone at very high temperatures, around 1,450°C at the clinker production stage alone. This process consumes a large amount of energy, mostly from fossil fuels. Additionally, about 0.9 tons of CO₂ is generated for every ton of cement produced.

On top of that, heavy machinery, material transport, and other activities are mostly still powered by fossil fuels, increasing the energy demand and carbon emissions in the sector. Burning fossil fuels also leads to air and noise pollution.

Carbon Capture Concrete Printing

The construction sector plays a crucial role in global development, so exploring more sustainable practices to minimize harm is crucial. One possible solution comes from researchers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, who developed a method in 3D concrete printing technology that focuses on reducing carbon emissions during production.

3D concrete printing is a construction method where a robotic arm layers cement-based materials to create concrete structures. The method developed by the NTU researchers uses a two-step extrusion system where carbon captured from industrial processes is directly added to the concrete mix during printing.

The carbon is absorbed into the concrete mix through the 3D printing nozzle. Once absorbed, it triggers a chemical reaction known as carbonation, where it reacts with the concrete materials to form solid compounds like calcium carbonate. The addition of steam is used to enhance the process, which accelerates the reaction and improves the quality of the concrete.

The resulting concrete has several advantages over traditional concrete or other carbon-reduction methods. It becomes up to 36.8% stronger under heavy weight or pressure and 45.3% more resistant to bending or cracking, making it tougher and more durable.

Additionally, its printability improves by 50%. Most importantly, this method allows for 38.2% higher carbon absorption compared to standard carbonation methods, significantly helping to reduce carbon emissions.

Mainstreaming Sustainable Construction

Considering the vital role of construction in development, finding environmentally friendly practices is essential for sustainability. Governments, businesses, and other key players in the sector must recognize the importance of continuous research and development in sustainable construction materials and processes. Furthermore, it is important for low-carbon practices and carbon capture technology to be promoted and mainstreamed to reduce environmental impacts.Additionally, transitioning to renewable energy for construction equipment is crucial to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Shifting building standards toward sustainability, supported by regulations and green certifications, is necessary to ensure adherence to eco-friendly practices and provide a sustainable built environment for all.

Editor: Kresentia Madina & Nazalea Kusuma