A greener horizon: Professor is helping pave the way for eco-friendly cement

Civil engineering professor Prannoy Suraneni is teaming up with Titan America to research cleaner and greener cement production as part of a U.S. Department of Energy grant.
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The College of Engineering has been tapped to help Titan America research clay materials as part of the single largest industrial decarbonization investment in the nation’s history. The research team's efforts will shed light on the strength and durability of concrete formulated with limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) in real-world scenarios. 

The researchers will delve deep into the potential of LC3, a groundbreaking technology capable of slashing CO2 emissions from traditional cement by 50%, while still maintaining the structural integrity of concrete. This breakthrough holds promise for many applications, from bridges to schools, making way for a more sustainable approach to infrastructure development. 

The impact extends beyond environmental benefits. As the project progresses, it will lay the groundwork for economic opportunities and job creation. The College will collaborate with other universities and Titan America to develop a comprehensive training program focused on workforce development. By prioritizing skills enhancement, certification, and education, they ensure that the workforce is equipped to meet the new demands of an evolving industry. 

Led by Titan America's subsidiary, Roanoke Cement Company LLC, the limestone calcined clay cement production project is part of the ambitious $6.3 billion decarbonization investment from the Industrial Demonstrations Program overseen by the Department of Energy. The initiative marks a significant milestone in reducing CO2 emissions and combatting climate change. 

More details about all the funded projects under this initiative can be found here.