Low-Carbon Geomimetic Cement
A paradigm shift in cement production that harnesses the natural power of volcanic rocks.
About the Technology
Cement, the second-most-used substance globally, suffers from highly inefficient production. Traditional techniques rely on thermal decomposition of limestone and clay, emitting carbon dioxide gas and resulting in a significant mass loss — approximately 38% of costly-transported input rock ending up as emissions.
PhlegoCement, a groundbreaking innovation by Professor Vanorio, heralds a paradigm shift in cement production that prioritizes sustainability from Earth, for Earth. The solution harnesses the natural power of volcanic rocks, inherently CO2-free, and mimics Earth's process of cementing and reinforcing rocks. By slashing most carbon emissions associated with traditional limestone-based cement production (55-65%), PhlegoCement achieves a remarkable 10% reduction in manufacturing costs compared to conventional methods.
PhlegoCement's technology seamlessly integrates with existing infrastructure. With these volcanic rocks abundantly available worldwide, we can directly replace limestone in up to 40% of current cement facilities in the United States alone. Targeting the root cause, PhlegoCement holds the potential to slash 5% of global CO2 emissions from an industry long considered difficult to decarbonize, while boosting efficiency. Support from the Stanford University HIT Fund will be key in bringing our technology to commercial pilot readiness.
Team Members
Publications:
- Stanford Office of Technology Licensing Annual Report, Fiscal Year 2022: Low Carbon, Resilient Cement
- Vanorio T., and W. Kanitpanyacharoen, (2015). Rock Physics of Fibrous Rocks Akin to Roman Concrete Explains Uplifts at Campi Flegrei Caldera. SCIENCE, vol. 349 no. 6248 pp. 617-621. Paper featured on the cover of SCIENCE
- Vanorio T., J. Chung, and S. Siman Tov, A. Nur, (2023). Hydrothermal Formation of Fibrous Mineral Structures: The Role on Strength and Mode of Failure. Frontiers Earth Sci., Sec. Earth and Planetary Materials.