Integration of Cement and Hydrogen Industries for Canada’s Climate Plan: Case Study

Abstract

In December 2020, Canada released its national strengthened climate change plan with focus on cutting energy waste and pollution towards building clean industrial advantage. Two weeks later, the national hydrogen strategy was announced urging all involved stakeholders to delve into the deployment of large-scale clean hydrogen technologies. Ontario, Canada’s largest economy and leading manufacturing province, releases its provincial hydrogen strategy and roadmap later this year. This paper represents a viable solution for reducing CO2 emissions from large industry pollutants by integrating our innovative copper chlorine (Cu-Cl) thermochemical hydrogen production technology with the energy intensive and polluting industry of cement manufacturing. The paper highlights the nexus between the production process of two valuable commodities, namely cement and Hydrogen, and the role their integration introduces for increased energy efficiency and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, as the kiln processes of cement manufacturing consume approximately 99% of total thermal energy use, the paper proposes different scenarios involving the use of hydrogen to partially meet the kiln’s heat demand. The scenarios show the possibility of achieving over 43% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to coal-based kiln production, along with reduced recurring cost for operating the kiln. On-site large-scale hydrogen production, mixed with NG was, found to be financially viable and environmentally advantageous.