In the quest for sustainable solutions to combat climate change, researchers are turning to innovative methods that not only reduce waste but also capture carbon dioxide. A recent study published in the journal *Waste Management* explores a novel approach to enhancing CO₂ sequestration using recycled aggregates (RAs) from construction and demolition waste (CDW). The research, led by David Bastos of the c5Lab—Sustainable Construction Materials Association in Portugal, offers a promising route to decarbonize the construction industry while adding value to low-quality waste materials.
The study focuses on the incorporation of an amine-based additive, specifically 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol (AMPD), to boost CO₂ capture in recycled aggregates. Bastos and his team investigated the potential of this additive to transform CDW, which typically has low carbon-capture potential, into a highly reactive CO₂ capture material. “By integrating AMPD into recycled aggregates, we were able to significantly enhance the CO₂ capture capacity, achieving a 12% capture rate,” Bastos explained. “This dual valorization not only extends the life cycle of the waste but also contributes to the decarbonization efforts in the construction sector.”
The research employed advanced analytical techniques, including thermogravimetric analysis (TG), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR), and a combination of both (TG-FTIR), to validate the use of RA materials as a support medium and quantify the CO₂ capture potential. These methods provided a comprehensive understanding of the chemical interactions and the effectiveness of the AMPD additive in promoting CO₂ sequestration.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy and construction sectors. By utilizing recycled aggregates enhanced with AMPD, construction materials can become more sustainable, reducing the reliance on natural resources and minimizing environmental impact. “This approach offers a win-win scenario,” Bastos noted. “It addresses the pressing need for sustainable construction materials while simultaneously contributing to carbon capture and storage efforts.”
The study’s findings could pave the way for future developments in the field, encouraging further exploration of amine-based additives and other innovative solutions to enhance CO₂ capture in various industrial processes. As the world continues to seek effective strategies to mitigate climate change, this research highlights the potential of integrating waste materials with advanced technologies to create a more sustainable future.
Bastos’ work, published in *Waste Management*, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the role of scientific innovation in addressing global environmental challenges. By transforming low-quality CDW into valuable resources, this research not only advances the field of sustainable construction but also contributes to the broader goal of achieving a low-carbon economy.