Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) in concrete production

A net-zero-carbon economy by 2050 requires major changes in construction technology and materials. Concrete in New Zealand is made with relatively high Portland cement levels. With current technology, it is impossible to eliminate carbon emissions associated with manufacturing the granular substance known as clinker. This research explores supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) that could replace a proportion of the currently used Portland cement in the short to medium term. It aims to identify ways to reduce barriers and risks for using significant levels of SCMs in concrete production, thereby reducing carbon emissions associated with Portland cement clinker. The research investigates SCMs, both in terms of classification and optimising performance, to allow easy adoption of the technology by designers and construction staff. An experimental programme will assess how locally available SCMs can be best classified and utilised in concrete production in New Zealand. Findings from countries that use significant levels of SCMs in concrete will also be collated and interpreted. Results will inform the classification system for cement and concrete producers, guidance on how to specify and use low-carbon concrete in construction, and tools to evaluate carbon reduction. A technical report will support the revision of NZS 3101.1&2: 2006 Concrete structures standard. (NB: TEXT FROM LIA2020) A net zero Carbon economy by 2050 requires major changes in construction technology/materials. This research explores alternate cement materials (industrial or natural source pozzolans) to replace a proportion the currently used Portland cement.