The construction industry, often overlooked as a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, is responsible for a staggering 37% of global emissions, according to the UN Environment Programme. However, researchers are working tirelessly to develop sustainable solutions. A team from the University of Tokyo has made significant progress in creating renewable concrete bricks using recycled materials and captured carbon dioxide.
The team’s innovative process involves grinding down demolished school building materials into a fine powder. This powder is then mixed with CO2 over a three-month period, resulting in a pressurized brick composed of a calcium bicarbonate solution. The brick is then layered in a mold and heated to form a solid block. This process, initially revealed in 2021, has been significantly refined, with the resulting blocks now strong enough to be used in home construction projects and even as pavement for sidewalks.
This groundbreaking research offers a promising path towards reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint. By repurposing waste materials and utilizing atmospheric CO2, this process not only minimizes environmental impact but also offers a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete production. As the research continues to advance, it holds the potential to revolutionize the construction industry, paving the way for a greener future.
