Research Projects

India aims to reduce its carbon footprint by 33% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. The construction industry is a major emitter of CO2, and developing alternative materials and carbon sequestration strategies could help. A research proposal suggests developing cement stabilized compressed earth blocks (CSEB) with recycled fines from construction and demolition wastes as a sustainable alternative. These blocks can sequester CO2 through accelerated carbonation curing techniques, reducing embodied carbon and overall emissions. The proposed CSEB combines 10 binder by weight, locally available soils, sand, and recycled fines.

The proposed experimental program aims to determine the optimal dosage of recycled fines, GGBS, and lime for delivering wet compressive strength, density, and durability properties in accordance with Indian standard IS 1725. The program will also investigate carbon dioxide uptake, its influence on micro-structure, mechanical, and durability properties, and the influence of acidic gases on carbon sequestration in CSEB. The program will be carried out in four phases, including soil and recycled fines characterization, oven drying, carbon dioxide exposure, and carbon uptake efficiency. The best performing CSEB formulations will be used to construct a 400 sq. ft. building for long-term performance monitoring.