Project Description: 

The proposed project aims to develop a near-zero carbon emission cement made entirely from 100% industrial by-products. This initiative supports the Department of Transportation's goals by promoting sustainable construction practices that significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with infrastructure projects. By addressing the environmental impact of traditional Portland cement, which is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, this project aligns with the Environmental Mitigation thrust area of the Environmentally Responsible Transportation Center for Communities of Concern (ERTC3). The primary objective is to create low-carbon cement formulations that reduce the carbon footprint of cement production, thereby supporting the sustainable development of transportation infrastructure.

_{Fig. 1. Technical idea of the near-zero emission cement from 100% industrial byproducts}

US DOT Priorities:

The project aligns with USDOT priorities, notably in “Preserving the Environment” and “Climate and Sustainability.” By reducing carbon emissions from cement production, which is a major contributor to the transportation sector's overall carbon footprint, the project directly contributes to climate change mitigation efforts. Furthermore, by emphasizing sustainable materials derived from industrial by-products, it promotes environmentally responsible practices within the construction industry, supporting a greener economy and infrastructure.

Outputs:

The project is expected to produce a comprehensive database of industrial by-products suitable for cement production, optimized low-carbon cement formulations, and preliminary performance data from laboratory testing. Additionally, reports will be generated detailing the mechanical and environmental properties of the new materials, along with findings from the life cycle assessment to quantify the sustainability benefits.

Outcomes/Impacts:

The anticipated outcomes include a significant transformation in the transportation infrastructure landscape by promoting the use of low-carbon cement. This shift is expected to lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced sustainability of infrastructure, and potentially lower long-term costs due to their durability and lower maintenance needs. The project contributes to the regulatory frameworks focused on environmental and public health by providing a sustainable alternative to conventional materials. The successful adoption of these low-carbon cements can inform policy decisions and standards, leading to broader industry acceptance and practice changes aimed at a more sustainable transportation system. Ultimately, the project also emphasizes diversity and equity by involving graduate students from underrepresented backgrounds in the research process, thereby fostering inclusive practices in STEM fields.