A transformative carbon capture trial has commenced at Ketton cement works, aiming to revolutionise emissions reduction in carbon-heavy industries.
- Backed by government funding, the trial is part of the ambitious C-Capture XLR8 CCS project, focusing on industries like cement and glass.
- C-Capture’s breakthrough technology, developed at the University of Leeds, promises significant energy efficiency and cost reductions.
- Heidelberg Materials UK sees this as a vital stride towards achieving net zero emissions in cement production.
- With potential for broad application, success at Ketton could lead to widespread industry adoption of this carbon capture technology.
A transformative carbon capture trial has commenced at the Ketton cement works in Rutland, targeting the cement and glass industries among others. This initiative is a component of C-Capture’s national XLR8 CCS project, which seeks to highlight the feasibility of its cost-effective carbon capture methods in sectors known for high emissions, such as cement and glass. Supported by a robust consortium of investors and a foundation in advanced chemical research from the University of Leeds, C-Capture’s technology is at the forefront of sustainable innovation.
C-Capture, established in 2009, leverages a proprietary solvent uniquely designed to capture CO2 selectively. This innovation not only facilitates the subsequent compression and geological storage of captured carbon but also creates opportunities for its application in industries such as fertiliser and oil and gas. By claiming a 40% reduction in energy use compared to conventional methods, C-Capture is poised to lower the financial barriers associated with carbon capture.
In collaboration with Heidelberg Materials UK, a carbon capture solvent compatibility test unit has been installed at the Ketton site. This hands-on trial aims to verify the practicality of C-Capture’s technology to efficiently extract CO2 from cement manufacturing emissions. C-Capture’s chief executive, Tom White, notes that the project deviates from traditional carbon capture methods by not utilising amines, thereby offering a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.
The Ketton trial is one of six pilot projects designed to address emissions in three significant sectors: cement, glass, and energy from waste. Funded significantly by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero’s net zero innovation portfolio, the project has received £1.7 million in government support coupled with an additional £1 million from industrial stakeholders. Such financial backing underscores the critical nature of this research in the pursuit of net zero emissions.
Heidelberg Materials UK chief executive Simon Willis emphasised the strategic importance of carbon capture in reducing overall emissions, stating, “Carbon capture is a critical part of our strategy to decarbonise cement production and essential if we are to reach net zero and help our customers achieve their own decarbonisation goals.” This strategic alliance with C-Capture underscores a commitment to fostering technological advancements that, if successful, could be implemented across other Heidelberg sites.
The outcome of the Ketton trial could significantly influence the future of carbon capture technology adoption in high-emission industries.
