Gulf Construction Online - KRB pioneers CarbonCure technology

Environment

CarbonCure technology is based on injecting captured carbon dioxide into ready-mix concrete during the mixing process.

KRB pioneers CarbonCure technology

01 December 2024

In groundbreaking news, Al Kifah Readymix & Blocks (KRB), a leading provider of building materials in Saudi Arabia, has announced the accreditation of CarbonCure technology. KRB will be the first readymix company in the kingdom to apply this innovative technology, pioneering the use of green concrete.

“This milestone marks KRB as the first company in the kingdom to utilise this innovative solution, solidifying its position as a pioneer in sustainable construction practices,” says Nigel Harries, General Manager of KRB.

CarbonCure is a green innovation developed by CarbonCure Technologies; a Canadian company dedicated to reducing the embodied carbon of concrete. The technology is applied by hundreds of concrete producers worldwide, contributing to a more sustainable building environment, whereas Al Kifah has taken the lead to be the host of this innovation in the
kingdom.

The technology mechanism is based on injecting captured carbon dioxide (CO2) into ready-mix concrete during the mixing process. This method is known as early age carbonation, permanently mineralises the CO2 within the concrete matrix. This mineralisation process not only enhances the compressive strength of the concrete but it also enables the reduction of cement content by up to five per cent whilst delivering the same strength and durability
performance.

“KRB is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and driving sustainable innovation in the construction industry,” Harries states. “By integrating CarbonCure technology into our operations, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future for Saudi Arabia.”

Under the supervision and verification of Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO), the accreditation of CarbonCure technology has followed a rigorous year-long testing phase, initiated in October 2023 and concluded in October this year. These tests, conducted in accordance with ASTM C494 standards to confirm the compliance of CarbonCure as a Type S additive, meeting the stringent quality and performance requirements set by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).

This achievement aligns with KBM’s dedication to providing high-quality, sustainable building materials. By utilising CarbonCure, KBM can optimise mix designs, reduce cement emissions impact, and lower the embodied carbon of its concrete products, all while maintaining the superior performance expected by its
customers.

Harries adds: “We see CarbonCure as a great added-value to our green products portfolio branded as Congreen. Through this portfolio, we offer a wide array of green solutions that help building better cities.”

This latest initiative underscores KBM’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable development and reinforces its position as a leader in the building materials industry.