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ISSN 2063-5346
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Carbon Dioxide Curing: Revolutionizing Concrete Production for Sustainable Construction

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Ch.Lakshmi Sowjanya , Dr.K.V.G.D.Balaji, Dr. P.Chandan Kumar
» doi: 10.48047/ecb/2023.12.si8.306

Abstract

The present era is characterized by heightened awareness of global warming and the significant role of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in its occurrence. The manufacturing of cement, a crucial component in the construction industry, contributes to approximately 7% of the total CO2 emissions through the calcination of calcium carbonate. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that a staggering 33.5 billion tonnes of CO2 are emitted annually, intensifying the urgency for the construction industry to address this issue through further research.To combat the environmental impact of cement production, the adoption of Carbon Cure (CC) technology at the initial curing stage has emerged as a potential solution. This technology utilizes captured and purified CO2, which is then injected into the concrete mix. This process not only accelerates the development of high early strength but also facilitates the permanent embedding of CO2 into the concrete, transforming it into a mineral form. Moreover, this curing method has the advantage of being cost-effective compared to conventional steam curing methods.The use of CC technology also aligns with eco-friendly principles as the entrapped CO2 remains within the concrete, even after pulverization, due to its chemical rearrangement into a mineral. This paper focuses on elucidating the mechanism, outcomes, feasibility, applications, and future prospects of CC technology. The materials employed in this study include Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Fly Ash (FA), Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Red Mud (RA), and Superplasticizer.Various tests are conducted to evaluate the properties of the concrete, including mechanical tests such as compressive, flexural, and split tensile strength. Microscopic tests such as X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP) are employed to examine the chemical reactions and products formed within the concrete. Furthermore, a carbonation test is conducted to assess the depth of carbonation, providing insights into the durability of the concrete.The results of these tests aim to determine the feasibility and potential scope of CC technology in the construction industry. By utilizing this technology, it is anticipated that the industry can significantly reduce CO2 emissions and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to concrete production.

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