DefinePK

Abstract

The manufacturing of Portland cement is carbon-intensive, making the cement and construction sectors in the United States major contributors to the country's greenhouse gas emissions. This review methodically assesses new sustainable low-carbon cement solutions that lower construction-related emissions without sacrificing performance. Among the key technologies analyzed are supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), carbon capture and utilization (CCU) strategies, process optimization techniques, and alternative cement chemistries like calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA), Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC³), magnesium-based binders, and alkali-activated materials (geopolymers). According to comparative analysis of performance and durability, several of these substitutes provide mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and long-term durability that are on par with or better than those of traditional systems. Global best practices and successful case studies from American infrastructure show that large-scale deployment is feasible. However, to achieve widespread adoption, this review recommends that targeted research investments, long-term durability validation, updated regulatory standards, coordinated pilot projects, and robust workforce training is required
Keywords: Low-Carbon Cement, Cement Decarbonization, Geopolymers, Supplementary Cementitious Materials, Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement, Carbon Capture And Utilization, Concrete Durability.