UltraTech Cement Ltd., India’s leading cement and ready-mix concrete producer, has announced a landmark partnership with the Institute for Carbon Management (ICM) at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Together, they will pilot ICM’s innovative Zero Carbon Lime (ZeroCAL) technology, designed to nearly eliminate carbon dioxide emissions during the limestone decomposition process in cement production—a major source of industry emissions.
The collaboration aims to establish a demonstration plant at one of UltraTech’s manufacturing units, making UltraTech the first company globally to test the ZeroCAL process at a significant scale. This initiative aligns closely with UltraTech’s commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, representing a critical step forward in sustainable cement production.
Commenting on the initiative, UltraTech Managing Director Mr. K.C. Jhanwar said, “As an industry leader, UltraTech is constantly exploring partnerships to overcome the technological barriers to decarbonise cement manufacturing. We are excited to collaborate with UCLA on this groundbreaking project, which we believe will be instrumental in delivering carbon-neutral concrete by 2050.”
Developed by Professor Gaurav Sant, ICM director and lead researcher for ZeroCAL, the technology could be a game changer in cement production. Sant emphasized that “the ZeroCAL approach effectively eliminates CO₂ emissions associated with cement production within the established OPC clinker framework, without requiring carbon capture and storage. It also generates clean hydrogen and oxygen to heat the cement kiln.”
This project underscores UltraTech’s dedication to adopting cutting-edge technologies that support its decarbonisation goals, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable cement production.
News sourced from: cemnet.com
Photo: Ultra Tech Cement
