From Data to Decarbonization: The Economic and Carbon Value of LC3 by Prof. Sofía Sánchez Berriel

Speaker: Prof. Sofía Sánchez Berriel, Central University of Las Villas, Cuba Host: Prof. Prannoy Suraneni, University of Miami, United States Title: From Data to Decarbonization: The Economic and Carbon Value of LC3 Cement production accounts for approximately 7-8% of global anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, with annual production reaching nearly 4 billion tonnes and projected demand growth in developing countries of 50% by 2050. Despite not being the most carbon-intensive material per kilogram, cement's climate significance derives from its production scale. Clinker constitutes the primary emissions driver, responsible for approximately 90% of concrete's CO₂ footprint despite representing only 11% of its mass. This conference evaluates Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) as a viable decarbonization solution, particularly for developing regions where kaolinitic clay deposits are abundant and capital for carbon capture technologies is limited. Analysis of 55 calcined clay projects (8 million tonnes per annum capacity, projected to reach 14 million tonnes by 2028) demonstrates significant economic and environmental potential. Three business models are analyzed for calcined clay production: retrofitting idle clinker kilns, decentralized production systems, and calcined clay export from Global South to Northern regions. A case study from Angola demonstrates that retrofitting achieves 31% energy reduction and 21% CO₂ emissions reduction, with attractive financial returns and rapid payback. Carbon pricing analysis reveals that under carbon pricing mechanisms aligned with climate targets, the carbon revenues associated with LC3 production could generate substantial income, potentially reaching billions of USD by 2028. LC3 thus offers a technologically mature, economically viable pathway for cement decarbonization with significant carbon mitigation potential across developing regions. ABOUT RILEM: The mission of RILEM is to advance scientific knowledge related to construction materials, systems and structures and to encourage transfer and application of this knowledge world-wide. This mission is achieved through collaboration of leading experts in construction practice and science including academics, researchers, testing laboratories and authorities.