Analysis of decarbonization measures for the Indian Cement Sector

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Industrial Ecology

Background:

• Cement production is a major source of industrial emissions due to its energy-intensive nature.
• The Indian cement sector significantly contributes to global carbon dioxide (CO2) output.
• Reducing emissions is critical for environmental sustainability in the construction industry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate multiple emission reduction strategies for the Indian cement sector.
• To develop a novel methodology for calculating cumulative emission reductions and costs.
• To assess the impact of captive power plants on overall emissions.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing mass and energy balances of a representative cement plant.
• Proposing a new methodology to evaluate interdependencies of various emission reduction measures.
• Analyzing emission abatement and cost premium curves to visualize results.

Main Results:

• Up to 30% CO2 emissions reduction is achievable using existing measures with no additional cost.
• Captive power plants can influence overall emission reduction potentials.
• Near-zero emission reduction necessitates the adoption of emerging technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS).

Conclusions:

• A significant portion of emissions can be reduced cost-effectively with current technologies.
• The proposed methodology offers a realistic assessment of emission reduction potentials from implemented measures.
• Emerging technologies are essential for achieving substantial, near-zero emissions in the cement industry.