Chemistry: General Environmental: General Geoscience: Environmental Issues Geoscience: Geochemistry
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Abstract on New Additives Could Turn Concrete into an Effective Carbon Sink Original source 

New Additives Could Turn Concrete into an Effective Carbon Sink

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, but it also has a significant environmental impact. The production of cement, which is a key component of concrete, is responsible for around 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions. However, new research suggests that additives could be used to turn concrete into an effective carbon sink.

What is a Carbon Sink?

A carbon sink is any natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores more carbon than it releases. Trees and other plants are natural carbon sinks, as they absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and store it in their biomass. Oceans and soil are also important carbon sinks.

The Problem with Concrete

Concrete is not a natural carbon sink, as it does not absorb or store carbon dioxide. In fact, the production of cement releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This is because cement production requires high temperatures and chemical reactions that release carbon dioxide as a byproduct.

The Solution: Additives

Researchers at MIT have developed a new type of additive that could turn concrete into an effective carbon sink. The additive is made from a type of bacteria called Sporosarcina pasteurii, which can convert calcium carbonate (a key component of cement) into calcium carbonate minerals.

When added to concrete, the bacteria consume calcium lactate (a food source) and produce calcium carbonate minerals. This process not only strengthens the concrete but also absorbs and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

How Effective is it?

The researchers tested the effectiveness of the additive by creating small concrete blocks and exposing them to high levels of carbon dioxide. They found that the blocks absorbed around 4% of their weight in carbon dioxide over 28 days.

While this may not seem like a significant amount, it could add up over time. If all new concrete structures were made using this additive, it could potentially absorb millions of tons of carbon dioxide each year.

Other Benefits

In addition to its carbon sequestration capabilities, the additive also has other benefits. It can increase the strength and durability of concrete, which could lead to longer-lasting structures. It can also reduce the need for cement, which could lower the carbon footprint of concrete production.

Conclusion

Concrete is a ubiquitous material that has a significant environmental impact. However, new research suggests that additives could be used to turn it into an effective carbon sink. The Sporosarcina pasteurii bacteria-based additive not only strengthens concrete but also absorbs and stores carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. If widely adopted, this technology could help mitigate the environmental impact of concrete production.

FAQs

1. What is a carbon sink?

A: A carbon sink is any natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores more carbon than it releases.

2. How does the Sporosarcina pasteurii additive work?

A: The bacteria consume calcium lactate (a food source) and produce calcium carbonate minerals, which absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

3. What are the other benefits of using this additive?

A: The additive can increase the strength and durability of concrete, reduce the need for cement, and lower the carbon footprint of concrete production.

4. How effective is this technology?

A: The researchers found that small concrete blocks absorbed around 4% of their weight in carbon dioxide over 28 days. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it could add up over time if widely adopted.

5. Could this technology be used in existing structures?

A: It is possible to retrofit existing structures with this additive, but it may be more practical to use it in new construction projects.

 


This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

Most frequent words in this abstract:
carbon (7), concrete (4), sink (4)