precarbonation

Precarbonation is a process used in concrete production to introduce carbon dioxide into the cementitious mixture before it fully hardens. This reaction, known as carbonation, occurs naturally over time as concrete is exposed to atmospheric carbon dioxide. However, precarbonation aims to accelerate this process by actively infusing CO2 into the fresh concrete.

The primary goals of precarbonation are to improve the durability and reduce the environmental impact of concrete. By promoting early carbonation, the process can lead to a denser microstructure, potentially enhancing strength, reducing permeability, and increasing resistance to certain forms of chemical attack. Furthermore, precarbonation offers a method for carbon capture and utilization (CCU), effectively sequestering CO2 from industrial sources into building materials.

Various methods exist for precarbonation, including exposing fresh concrete to gaseous CO2 under controlled conditions or using specialized admixtures that react with CO2. The effectiveness and specific benefits of precarbonation can vary depending on factors such as cement type, mix design, CO2 concentration, and curing conditions. Research in this area continues to explore optimal techniques and applications to maximize the advantages of this carbon-reducing concrete technology.