EDITORIAL: INSIGHTS ON THE POTENTIAL OF CARBON MINERALIZATION OF CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

CO2 emissions from the construction industry have long been a topic of global concern. While various efforts have been implemented and have shown promising outcomes, particularly the adoption of supplementary cementitious materials and the development of novel binders, these measures remain insufficient to meet the targeted net zero goals. Hence, new and advanced technologies are required to address the issue. Within the framework of carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) technology, carbon mineralization of construction materials presents a viable approach to further drive the decarbonizing efforts of the construction industry. Carbon mineralization not only converts emitted CO2 into stable carbonates for permanent storage within construction materials but can also improve the quality of the resulting materials and products, particularly those derived from waste, thereby supporting circular economy. Nevertheless, the widespread adoption of carbon mineralization technology in the construction industry remains limited. This is particularly due to challenges in translating the technology from laboratory and pilot studies to industrial-scale applications, where additional factors must be considered. Moreover, CO2 sources are not always located close to carbon mineralization processes. Hence, addressing the associated challenges is crucial to enable the large-scale implementation of this technology for national benefits.