Globally, concrete is the most widely utilized material, second only to water. It is estimated that 5-8 percent of global carbon emissions are the result of the manufacturing of cement, the key component that binds concrete together. The production of normal portland cement emits roughly 0.9 tons of CO2 per ton of cement produced. The production of Rapid Set cement emits roughly 0.6 tons, 33% less. This reduced carbon footprint is due to:
A key ingredient in cement is limestone, also known as Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3). When this raw material is heated in the production process, it emits CO2 in a process called “calcination". Rapid Set uses much less limestone, therefore emitting far less CO2 upon heating.
Cement raw materials must be heated or “burned” in a kiln to make cement clinker. Rapid Set is burned at a lower temperature and uses less fuel than portland cement, saving fuel and emitting less CO2.
Long-term studies have shown that Rapid Set cement concrete outlasts portland cement concrete by a factor of two, reducing the need to replace and repair concrete. This longer lifetime further reduces the carbon footprint of Rapid Set to 66% less than portland cement.
Eco Options identifies products with less of an environmental impact than comparable standard products. Rapid Set was chosen due to a 32-36% smaller carbon footprint on a pound-by-pound basis than portland cement since producing Rapid Set uses less limestone and fossil fuels. Rapid Set also meets EPP requirements regarding raw materials extraction and processing, packaging materials, product use, and disposal and transportation. Visit The Eco Options Carbon Emissions Page for more information.
Materials and Resources (MR)
Indoor Environmental Quality (EQ)
Durable Materials (MR) (Canada)
Heat Island Effect (SS)
For sustainability articles and papers, email info@ctscement.com.