The cement industry is one of the largest CO₂ emitters in the world. Around 8% of global CO₂ emissions come from cement and clinker production. CO₂ emissions arise from two main sources:

1. Process-related emissions (~60 %): Release of CO₂ during the calcination of the limestone (CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂)
2. Fuel-related emissions (~40 %): Use of fossil fuels such as gas, oil or coal and alternative secondary fuels for the kilns (e.g. CH₄ → CO₂ + H₂O)

• The price for CO₂ certificates is currently CHF 120/t CO₂ in Switzerland and € 80 – 100/t CO2 in the European Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) and is expected to rise further.
• Switzerland and the EU are pursuing a net-zero strategy until 2050 and a gradual reduction in free certificates for emissions-intensive industries.
• Companies with high CO₂ emissions must increasingly develop carbon capture strategies or use alternative fuels.
• By using a recycling-based fuel made from CO₂, the cement industry could drastically reduce its costs for CO₂ certificates and establish CO₂-neutral processes with regard to fuels in the long term.

• The direct use of a plasma-based CO/O₂-rich mixture avoids conversions to existing clinker kilns, which saves enormous investments.
• Existing plant infrastructures remain usable, as the plasma fuel can be used directly in conventional burners.
• H₂-based processes are expensive, complicated and time-consuming, yet a CO/O₂ mixture with -283 kJ/mol has roughly the same calorific value as hydrogen (H₂) with -285 kJ/mol

• Geopolitical uncertainties and rising import costs for fossil fuels are jeopardizing security of supply.
• Plasma-based fuel provides a local, renewable and CO₂-neutral source of energy.

• The “Green Deal”, net zero strategy and EU taxonomy for sustainable investments call for a drastic reduction in fossil CO₂ emissions.
• Many governments therefore support and promote technologies for CO₂ avoidance, reduction and use by means of subsidies or tax incentives.
• Plasma processes could become part of the Carbon Contracts for Difference (CCfD), in which companies are compensated by the state for CO₂ reductions.

• The integration of a plasma process for CO₂ conversion can significantly reduce fossil CO₂ emissions from CO₂-intensive heating processes such as clinker production.

• CO₂ certificate costs of around CHF 120/t CO₂ are saved.

• Existing infrastructure can continue to be used and expensive conversions can be avoided (CAPEX)

• Independence from fossil fuels is achieved.

  Investing in this technology at an early stage secures competitive advantages and positions you as a pioneer in a climate-neutral building materials industry!