Cenin Ltd. (Cenin) has developed a new technology to reduce emissions from the cement production by over 75%. Presently, the cement production is responsible for up to 5% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide that is more than the entire aviation industry. The company’s cement is made from the industry by-products that include the principal chemical elements that are found in traditional Portland cement and cement substitutes.
Cenin has opened a production plant and an R&D center near Bridgend in south west Wales. Cenin started delivering cement to blue chip companies in July 2008 and is starting construction of a second mill to meet future demand. The company’s new technology modifies these materials to offer a low-carbon, high-strength durable cement substitute for the concrete industry.
On an average, 1000kg of CO² is emitted with every ton of cement produced. By contrast, Cenin’s cement replacement generates less than 250kg, and the company plans to decrease this to below 30kg by powering its plant with renewable energy.
Gary Hunt, technical director of Cenin, has developed the new technology with the help of Cardiff University, where he was an Honorary Research Fellow.
Cenin Director Martyn Popham stated that the company is producing a truly environmentally friendly product. “Our cement eliminates the need to quarry raw materials,” Popham added.
“Demand for Cenin’s products – and interest in the technology – is huge,” explained Popham. “There is real potential for global growth as the construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint.”
Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for the Economy and Transport of the Welsh government, hailed the news that a Welsh company is leading the development of ultra low carbon cement.
“Given the size of the global construction market and the drive for the industry to radically reduce its carbon footprint, there is huge potential for this product,” stated Jones.
“This success also illustrates the benefits of industry and academia collaborating and the importance of investing in R&D to develop innovative new products that meet a very real need.”
Cenin is based on a former 20-acre aerodrome that Popham wants to become a center for renewable technology companies.
“We would like other like-minded green companies to co-locate on our site and create a business cluster powered by renewable energy, helping to cut costs and bring even greater benefits to the local economy and the environment. Small enterprises can make a difference if working together,” added Popham.
“Our long term objective is to create a Technology Centre of Excellence for Sustainability in Practice, attracting and creating research and development jobs locally.”
Cenin is a UK-based developer and demonstrator of a range of low-carbon businesses.