Study on Carbon-Neutral Concrete: Innovations in Carbon Capture and Mineralization
Abstract
Background: CO₂ emissions related to the production of concrete contribute significantly to the global footprint, resulting in approximately 8% of the total anthropogenic CO₂ output. Even as India races to build its rural infrastructure, districts like Osmanabad, with its pervasive climate vulnerability and construction-induced emissions, must grapple with a potent toxic brew of the two. Carbon-neutral concrete especially through CO₂ mineralization or the use of carbon-capturing additives presents a viable way to decarbonize construction while enhancing the material's properties. Objectives: This study aims to assess the feasibility, environmental impact, and stakeholder opinions regarding carbon-neutral concrete technology in Osmanabad. More specifically, the study explores the possibility of using CO₂ mineralization during curing and locally available carbon-capturing additives to reduce embodied carbon in rural infrastructure projects. Methods: A mixed-methods exploratory design was employed, incorporating semi-structured interviews, field observations, focus groups, and technical performance tasks. The research population consisted of 80 informants: engineers, masons, municipal officers, vendors, and teachers. Thematic analysis of qualitative data was conducted through NVivo, and comparable quantitative indicators, including compressive strength and carbonation depth, were benchmarked across pilot sites. Results: There were improvements in the strength of carbon-neutral mixes of up to 25% higher and 30 to 50% in the carbonation depth than the equivalent conventional concrete. Technical professionals had a high level of stakeholder awareness; however, this was lower among field workers. Obstacles were the healing infrastructure, additional expense, and training deficiencies. Considering the local availability versus cost, fly ash and biochar were identified as potential amendments. Conclusion: Carbon-neutral concrete could be an alternative for climate-resilient construction in Osmanabad. Its scale-up relies on policy and support, regionally specific supply chains, and capacity development. Environment: Through the combination of environmental innovation and rural development, Osmanabad is demonstrative of what low-carbon infrastructure could look like in a resource-stripped context.