Apr 20 2009
A small Welsh company, Cenin Ltd., announced it has developed a new technology to reduce emissions from cement production by over 75%. Cement production is currently responsible for up to 5% of all CO² emissions worldwide - more than the entire aviation industry.
Cenin Ltd., formed only two years ago, has opened a production plant and an R&D center near Bridgend in south west Wales. Cenin began supplying cement to blue chip companies last July and is now beginning construction of a second mill to meet future demand.
Cenin’s cement is made from industry by-products that contain the principal chemical elements found in traditional Portland cement and cement substitutes. Cenin’s technology modifies these materials to provide a low-carbon, high-strength durable cement substitute for the concrete industry.
On average, 1000kg of CO² is emitted with every ton of cement produced. By contrast, Cenin’s cement replacement produces less than 250kg, and Cenin intends to reduce this to below 30kg by powering its plant with renewable energy.
Gary Hunt, Technical Director of Cenin, developed the technology with the help of Cardiff University, where he was an Honorary Research Fellow.
Cenin Director Martyn Popham said the company is creating a truly environmentally friendly product. “Our cement eliminates the need to quarry raw materials,” he explained.
“Demand for Cenin’s products – and interest in the technology – is huge,” said Popham.
“There is real potential for global growth as the construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. “
Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for the Economy and Transport of the Welsh government, hailed the news that a Welsh company is leading the development of ultra low carbon cement.
“Given the size of the global construction market and the drive for the industry to radically reduce its carbon footprint, there is huge potential for this product, “Jones said.
“This success also illustrates the benefits of industry and academia collaborating and the importance of investing in R&D to develop innovative new products that meet a very real need.”
Cenin is based on a former 20-acre aerodrome that Popham wants to become a center for renewable technology companies.
“We would like other like-minded green companies to co-locate on our site and create a business cluster powered by renewable energy, helping to cut costs and bring even greater benefits to the local economy and the environment. Small enterprises can make a difference if working together,” said Popham.
“Our long term objective is to create a Technology Centre of Excellence for Sustainability in Practice, attracting and creating research and development jobs locally.”