Solidia Technologies’ novel utilization of carbon dioxide in concrete curing was featured as a leading emerging technology in civil infrastructure during the American Concrete Institute Fall 2015 Convention taking place this week in Denver.

Solidia Cement, which is silicate-based and has a low-calcium content, gains strength through carbonation instead of hydration. Presenting findings of “CO2-Cured Concrete based on Calcium Silicate Cement (CSC),” Solidia Technologies Principal Scientist Sada Sahu, Ph.D., explained that, when compared to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), 30 percent less CO₂ is emitted during the production of Solidia Cement. Additionally, Solidia Cement-based concrete (CSC) can consume up to 300 kg of CO₂ per ton of cement during the curing process.

“When the reduced CO2 emissions associated with Solidia Cement production are considered along with the ability of that cement to consume CO2 during concrete curing, the CO2 footprint associated with the manufacturing and use of cement can be reduced by up to 70 percent compared to OPC. As water is not consumed during the curing process, the mix water can be recovered and recycled.”

For the second consecutive year, ACI Foundation’s Strategic Development Council (SDC) showcased Solidia as a leading innovator in the field. Participating on its “Emerging Technologies in Civil Infrastructure” panel, Senior Researcher Deepak Ravikumar, Ph.D., presented “Solidia Technologies: Combining a Novel Non-Hydraulic Cement Chemistry with a Unique Technology to Cure CO2.”

Commenting on the panel discussion, Dr. Ravikumar said, “Sustainable solutions are so important to this industry, since cement and concrete production accounts for up to five percent of global CO₂ emissions. We discussed ways to reduce energy consumption, the use of various SCM's, or an alternative fuel source to make cement, but it is clear Solidia is the only all-encompassing solution.”

Currently in commercialization for large- and small-scale applications, Solidia’s additional R&D collaborators include LafargeHolcim, CDS Group, DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory, the EPA, Rutgers University, Purdue University, Ohio University, and the University of South Florida.

Focused on the theme, “Constructability,” ACI’s Fall Concrete Convention and Exposition drew leaders in the field from across the globe, including chemists, scientists and frontrunners in concrete innovation. Presentations were also made by Solidia investors and R&D partners, LafargeHolcim and BASF.