Unlocking the Potential of LC3: Economic, Environmental, and Financial Impacts with a Novel Assessment Tool

Abstract

This article examines the transformative potential of Lime Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) as a sustainable alternative to traditional cement, with emphasis on its economic, environmental and financial implications. LC3 is composed of limestone and calcined clay as supplementary materials reducing clinker content in cement. It significantly reduces the carbon emissions associated with cement production while maintaining competitive performance levels. This study introduces a novel evaluation tool designed to assess the various impacts of LC3 by comparing three different technologies: retrofitted kiln, rotary calciner and flash calciner. The analysis also considers the effects of a carbon tax and the impact of LC3 on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) operational costs. The research results indicate that LC3 leads to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and cost savings through increased resource efficiency and reduced energy consumption during production. In addition, the paper assesses the financial viability of LC3 adoption for stakeholders, highlighting potential market advantages and investment opportunities. The results suggest that the integration of LC3 into the construction industry can significantly contribute to sustainable development goals by promoting greener building practices and reducing the ecological footprint of construction projects. This paper provides valuable insights for policy makers, industry practitioners and researchers, and highlights the importance of adopting innovative materials such as LC3 to address pressing environmental challenges while ensuring economic resilience. By taking advantage of the proposed assessment tool, stakeholders can make informed decisions that facilitate the transition to a more sustainable built environment.