The cement plant of tomorrow

Abstract

Cement plants of tomorrow will have to implement all CO2 abatement and saving measures to the best extent possible. Reducing the clinker factor, optimising the reactivity of the clinker, substituting fossil fuels by alternative fuels and using alternative raw materials are pathways which will still play a growing role in future cement production. Digitalisation, artificial intelligence, and also new grinding setups will support the manufacturing process.Once all of these measures have been implemented, the remaining CO2 will be captured at the clinker plant. Different capture technologies exist and are about to be further developed to a high degree of maturity. The most important policy ask aims at a respective infrastructure for the transport, storage and use of CO2.Finally, the relevant markets for future cements need to be developed. This not only requires the respective standards to be amended, but also that procurement schemes are implemented.