Cemex , a major player in the construction industry , continues to make strides towards sustainability with an innovative project to reduce its carbon footprint . The company has begun implementing pioneering clean hydrogen technology at its cement plant in Rugby, UK.
This project, developed together with HiiROC , a British company specialising in hydrogen technologies, marks a crucial step forward in its roadmap towards industrial decarbonisation .
Thermal plasma electrolysis to reduce emissions
The project focuses on the use of thermal plasma electrolysis (TPE), a process that uses high-temperature plasma to break down hydrocarbons into hydrogen and solid carbon. Unlike traditional methods of hydrogen production , such as water electrolysis, this technology significantly reduces electricity consumption, using only one-fifth of conventional energy . The byproduct of this reaction is black carbon , which can be captured and stored, thus avoiding the emission of CO2 into the atmosphere.
The collaboration between Cemex Ventures, Cemex’s investment arm, and HiiROC began in 2021, when Cemex made its first investment in the hydrogen startup. This partnership has enabled Cemex to implement plasma technology at its Rugby plant, one of the company’s flagship facilities. The initiative is part of Cemex’s ” Future in Action ” program , which aims to achieve net-zero CO 2 emissions by 2050.
Clean hydrogen for the decarbonisation of the cement industry
The cement industry is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases and the transition to clean energy is key to achieving global sustainability goals. The use of low-carbon hydrogen as an alternative energy source can profoundly transform clinker production processes in cement plants, helping to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to the global energy transition .
The deployment of this hydrogen technology is another step in Cemex’s commitment to be an industry leader in decarbonization. By integrating clean hydrogen into its production process, Cemex seeks to reduce polluting emissions from its facilities and promote the adoption of sustainable technologies in the construction sector.
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Source and photo: Cemex