Projects

Low carbon footprint supplementary cementitious materials for concrete and blended cement use from mineral carbonation


1 Jan 2023 - 31 Dec 2025
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
$1,811,164.00 (Cash + In kind)
Sustainable Concrete

Challenge and proposed solution

The challenge at hand is to establish acceptance for Mineral Carbonation International Pty Limited (MCI) silica products as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), overcoming technical risks and performance requirements.

Concrete production is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, and reducing its environmental impact is imperative. However, the adoption of new materials in the construction industry faces hurdles related to verification of product performance, conformity with standards, and identification of potential markets. Overcoming these challenges is essential to fostering sustainable practices and mitigating the carbon footprint of concrete.

In 2023, MCi embarked on a collaborative research project led by Kirk Vessalas from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in collaboration with industry partner Mineral Carbonation International Pty Limited (MCI). The project aims to conduct rigorous performance tests, ensure conformity with standards, identify potential markets, and lay the groundwork for larger trials. Leveraging UTS’s academic expertise and MCI’s industry insights, the project will meticulously examine material properties, refine formulations, and adhere to stringent testing protocols. Through a three-stage methodology involving mortar bar tests, microstructural analysis, and concrete testing, the project will provide a technical foundation for the acceptance of MCI silica products as SCMs. This collaboration between academia and industry is crucial for driving innovation and fostering sustainable practices in the construction sector.


PROJECT PARTNERS

  • Transport for NSW
  • Mineral Carbonation International Pty Limited
  • University of Technology Sydney