The Bloomberg article discusses a groundbreaking effort by Denmark's concrete manufacturer IBF and the U.S. startup BioMason to address the cement industry's high carbon emissions by developing a new type of low-carbon cement. This cement, created through a process involving bacteria, significantly reduces the energy required and the carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional Portland cement. The bacteria used in this process convert carbon dioxide into calcium carbonate, mimicking the natural formation of coral reefs. This innovative approach, essentially 3D printing with a biological base, aims to produce polished concrete tiles that trap carbon throughout their lifespan.
The article details the challenges faced in scaling up production, highlighting the complexity of modifying physical processes and the innovative steps taken to ensure consistent production quality. It also notes the significant potential market for this low-carbon cement, especially in countries like Denmark with stringent environmental regulations. BioMason has attracted substantial venture capital, indicating strong interest in sustainable building materials. The collaboration aims to make a significant impact on global carbon emissions from cement production by 2030, starting with non-structural applications like tiles and eventually expanding to more demanding structural uses.