Increased PLC production is an element of Cemex’s Future in Action programme that focuses on reducing the carbon footprint of its operations and products.
Portland limestone cement is expected to offer reductions of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by up to 10% when compared to ordinary Portland cement (OPC).
In the lower carbon PLC, Cemex says finely-ground limestone replaces a portion of the clinker, typically reducing the clinker factor by approximately 10% compared to OPC, and thereby reducing its CO2 intensity.
Extensive testing and customer feedback have shown PLC offers the same or better performance in durability and resilience when compared to OPC, the company adds.
Cemex also plans to increase the production of PLC, or begin manufacturing the eco-friendly product, at other US cement plants in the coming months.
Cemex USA president Jaime Muguiro says: “At Cemex, we acknowledge that climate action is one of the most important issues facing our world, and we are committed to being part of the solution. Our company has ambitious emission-reduction targets, and by offering lower carbon products that deliver brilliant performance like Portland limestone cement, we can continue to work toward those goals while encouraging customers to join us in the journey.”
Additionally, Cemex intends to increase its use of alternative fuels, including biomass, at the Brooksville and Demopolis cement plants to further reduce CO2 emissions and promote a circular economy. Alternative fuels are expected to account for 30% of fuels used in the manufacturing process at the Brooksville plant by the end of 2022.
