A shot of carbon dioxide rewires how cement sets
MIT researchers have visualized the chemical reaction that occurs when carbon dioxide is injected into cement paste. This process, which helps concrete gain strength faster, is being explored as a method for permanent carbon storage in construction materials.
Why it matters
Understanding the chemistry of CO2-injected concrete could lead to more sustainable construction practices and help reduce the carbon footprint of the building industry.
Press Inquiries Press Contact : Andrew Paul Laurent Email: alaurent@mit.edu Phone: 617-715-5104 MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub Close Caption : A confocal Raman microscope (left) tracks the chemical evolution of CO₂-injected cement paste samples over 24 hours; the custom stage s quartz window enables the laser to scan from below. Cement paste is the basis for fresh concrete, as pictured at right; CO₂-injected concrete is gaining commercial traction as a material that permanently stores carbon dioxide. Credits : Photos: Courtesy of the researchers (left) and AdobeStock (right). Previous image Next image
The article is a technical summary of scientific research published in an academic journal.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in