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Description
UP Catalyst and SafeRock are jointly implementing a Second Small Grant Scheme project to start producing CO2 negative concrete with enhanced mechanical properties by adding UP Catalyst carbon nanotubes (CNT) to Saferock geopolymer concrete alternative. Initial results from the project showed an excellent effect of the CNTs on the geopolymer mixes rheological properties as well as the mechanical properties of the final concrete product such as a 190% increase in compressive strength. The best results were achieved using oxidised CNTs (ox-CNTs) with a small content of oxidised substituents such as alcohols and carboxylic acids.
Additional call project focuses on the further development of UP Catalyst and Saferock joint products, with them main focus on developing ox-CNTs with a higher oxygen content. Using ox-CNTs with higher oxygen content in concrete allows for the development of two next generation geopolymer products that will allowsus to target new market sectors and achieve market growth. Project is expected to have a high impact on lowering the greenhouse gas emissions of the cement industry, which currently account for a whopping 8% of all global CO2 emissions, as using the materials developed in this project 50% less concrete can be used in construction due to its improved strength properties. Furthermore, as 3.7kg of CO2 will be sequestered in the process of producing 1kg of carbon nanomaterials used in our product, further CO2 emission reduction goals will be fulfilled. By developing a more economical geopolymer product in this project, we will make these reductions attractive and available to more industries and by offering concrete that suits underwater applications in offshore windfarms we are further empowering the green energy transition in Europe and beyond.