NREL is developing sustainable alternatives to traditional concrete through the BUILD’EM project. Led by Paul Meyer and his team, BUILD’EM creates carbon-negative concrete using lignin.
The Need for Decarbonizing Cement and Concrete
Cement production is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 7% of the world’s total. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap identifies the cement industry as a crucial sector for reducing emissions through innovative technologies, waste reduction, carbon capture, and the use of low-carbon materials.
Developing Carbon-Negative Alternatives with Lignin
Meyer’s background in polymer chemistry led him to explore epoxy-like resins as an alternative to traditional cement. By using a polymer-based system that does not emit carbon dioxide during synthesis and requires lower temperatures (60°C to 200°C), Meyer aimed to decarbonize the industry without relying on expensive carbon-capture techniques.
Lignin, the second-most abundant biomaterial on the planet, is a waste byproduct from the pulp and paper industry, with roughly 100 million tons produced annually. Meyer recognized lignin’s potential as a polymer that could be crosslinked like an epoxy resin, sequestering CO2 captured from the air in the form of biomass.
BUILD’EM’s Promising Results and Future Potential
Meyer’s team developed a combination of chemicals that exceeded traditional concrete’s strength. BUILD’EM produced 50% to 80% lower emissions and approached similar costs as cement-based concrete.
BUILD’EM has the potential to affect as much as 7% of world emissions while being economically competitive. The abundance and scalability of lignin make it a promising solution for regions with limited access to the grid, as the curing process requires low temperatures.
The NREL team aims to expand their understanding of these materials and optimize the formula. They plan to demonstrate the product’s resilience and industrial relevance through increased production and real-world applications.
Aligning with DOE’s Decarbonization Goals
The BUILD’EM project aligns with the DOE’s commitment to decarbonizing the industrial sector. By developing sustainable, carbon-negative alternatives for construction, NREL researchers are paving the way for a greener future.
