Carbon-negative concrete is emerging as a transformative solution for reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint, which accounts for ~8% of global CO2 emissions. Microalgae-based biomineralization processes enable CO2 sequestration during concrete curing, capturing up to 600 kg of CO2 per ton of concrete produced. This contrasts sharply with traditional Portland cement production, which emits ~900 kg CO2 per ton.
The biomineralization process involves cultivating microalgae like Chlorella or Spirulina in nutrient-rich water infused with industrial CO2 emissions . These microalgae convert CO2 into calcium carbonate (CaCO3) via photosynthesis , achieving conversion efficiencies exceeding ~70% . The resulting CaCO3 is then incorporated into concrete mixes , enhancing compressive strength by ~15-20% compared to conventional formulations .
Scalability studies have demonstrated that microalgae cultivation facilities can be integrated into existing cement plants , reducing net CO2 emissions by ~50-60% . Pilot projects have shown that ~10 hectares of algae ponds can sequester ~10 ,000 tons of CO2 annually while producing sufficient CaCO3 for ~20 ,000 tons of concrete . This approach not only mitigates climate change but also creates economic opportunities through carbon credits and sustainable building materials .
Recent advancements focus on optimizing algae strains for higher CO2 uptake rates and faster growth cycles . Genetic engineering techniques have yielded strains capable of doubling biomass production within ~12 hours , significantly improving process efficiency . Additionally , innovations in bioreactor design , such as photobioreactors with light - diffusing panels , have increased algae productivity by ~30-40% . These developments position carbon - negative concrete as a viable alternative for sustainable infrastructure development .
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