In the face of growing environmental concerns, especially in the cement industry—a significant contributor to CO2 emissions—many nations are taking proactive steps toward sustainability. Among the most promising innovations is Green Cement, a groundbreaking solution paving the way for an eco-friendly future in construction.
What is Green Cement?
The definition of green cement varies by manufacturer, with each adopting unique processes to enhance environmental sustainability. However, the unifying principle is clear: green cement is designed to minimize CO2 emissions and optimize the use of natural resources, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional options.
Notable Types of Green Cement
- Ekkomaxx Cement: Composed of 95% fly ash and 5% renewable liquid additives, this type achieves near-zero carbon emissions.
- Geopolymer Cement: Made from alumino silicate rather than calcium oxide, it produces 95% less CO2 compared to conventional cement.
- Magnesium Oxychloride Cement: A neutral, eco-friendly option derived from magnesium oxide and magnesium chloride—by-products of magnesium mining.
While these advanced materials are not yet widely adopted due to high costs and complex technology, blended cements incorporating fly ash and steel slag are gaining traction globally, including in developing nations. Known under various names like Portland Cement Blended (PCB) or Portland Composite Cement, Multi Component Portland Cement, they are becoming a preferred choice.
Green Cement Solutions in Vietnam
In Vietnam, several measures have been implemented to reduce carbon emissions in cement production, including:
- Using fly ash from power plants and blast furnace slag from steel mills as raw materials.
- Optimizing coal quality and calorific values during kiln operations, along with reusing alternative fuels for lower-temperature processes.
- Substituting clay with industrial sludge in production.
- Partnering with FLSmidth to develop advanced technologies for pollution control.
According to the Vietnam Institute for Building Materials (VIBM), optimal blending ratios for fly ash (5-30%) and slag (10-50%) have been shown to enhance cement activity. As a result, PCB cement is steadily becoming the standard for domestic markets.
Benefits of Using Green Cement
- Economic Value: Comparable or superior durability to traditional cement at a potentially lower cost when blended optimally.
- Environmental Impact: Reduced CO2 emissions and energy consumption, contributing to resource preservation and improved public health.
Leading companies such as Vicem, Holcim, and SCG are at the forefront of this movement, striving to incorporate higher levels of recycled materials into their products. At Supas, we take pride in being a prominent exporter of Vicem’s innovative cement solutions, fully committed to advancing the green cement revolution and building a sustainable future for generations to come.
Author: Elly Nguyen
Sales Manager of Supas Vietnam
+84 369 980 010