Cement energy efficiency

The most important use of cement is in the production of concrete. It acts as the binder that ‘glues’ the other key ingredients of concrete – sand and gravel. Cement typically makes up about 12% of the concrete mix. Clinker, the main component of cement, is obtained during the calcination and sinterisation of limestone in a kiln. The clinker, is then ground and blended with other materials into a powder (cement). Most carbon dioxide emissions from cement manufacturing result from the production of clinker. Reducing the clinker content therefore reduces the energy and carbon intensity of the cement produced.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) may be a viable option to reduce CO2 emissions from cement production in the medium term, but improving cement energy and environmental performance in the short term is the main technological challenge. This will be achieved through higher uses of clinker substitutes in cement and increased use of alternative fuels, such as waste and biomass.

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Toolkit
Prospective energy consumption and CO2 emissions in the European Cement Industry EU Power Production Statistics Photovoltaic Power Calculator Biomap Energy cost calculator Bubblegraph