Concrete's Carbon Footprint
July 28, 2010
Concrete's carbon footprint is fairly large due to two factors: the energy used to heat limestone (CaCO3) in kilns to form CaO, one of the major components in concrete; and the large quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2) released as the conversion of limestone to CaO proceeds. However, a recent study has shown that over time, five percent or more of the lost CO2 reabsorbs back into the concrete, thereby reducing the ultimate carbon footprint.
Topics:
Environment, Concrete, Greenhouse gases, Environmental issues with energy, CaO, Lime, Carbon, Carbon dioxide, Carbon footprint, Pavements, Masonry, Construction, energy
