Illite fantastic: research points the way for cheap, low-emission cement substitute 

Researchers at RMIT University say that a new method to process a clay type into a low-carbon substitute for cement in concrete could prove “economically and environmentally scalable”. According to a statement from the university on Thursday, the team has demonstrated a way to turn cheap and abundant illite clay with low-grade kaolinite clay into…

HLTCRC maps out heavy industry net zero transition

The Heavy Industry Low-Carbon Transition Co-operative Research Centre (HILT CRC) has launched a flagship three-year project on energy infrastructure to help guide heavy industry decarbonisation. The project will provide clear, data-driven estimates of energy costs to inform government policy and enable heavy industry to plan its decarbonisation pathway. ‘Unlocking investment in energy infrastructure for net-zero…

CRC collaborative R&D speeds decarbonisation

The economic value of government investment in collaborative research has again been shown in an authoritative new report – this time in meeting Australia’s net zero ambitions. The report, from consultants ACIL Allen, analysed 13 Cooperative Research Centres’ (CRCs) direct and indirect contributions to Australia’s decarbonisation efforts. The Mapping and Quantification of CRCs’ Work on…

Calix and Heidelberg Materials sign JV for low emissions cement plant

Industrial technology company Calix’s subsidiary, Leilac Limited and German cement manufacturer Heidelberg Materials have formed a JV to build and operate the Leilac-2 low emission cement demonstration plant (pictured) at Heidelberg’ Ennigerloh facility in Germany. Construction of the Leilac-2 plant, which utilises Calix’s externally heated kiln is expected to commence in 2025 with commissioning expected…

Manufacturing news briefs — stories you might have missed

Cyclopharm raises $20 million, seeks another $2 million Radiopharmaceutical imaging company Cyclopharm has successfully completed its institutional placement, raising $20 million before costs. The Placement attracted strong demand from both existing shareholders and from new institutional and sophisticated investors in Australia, Hong Kong, and the UK. A share purchase plan to raise up to $2.0…