The use of HRM to produce concrete under the agreement between Zeotech and Holcim Australia could reduce emissions. Pic: Getty Images.
Zeotech MoU with Holcim could advance the use of HRM in concrete to reduce emissions
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- Zeotech signs MoU with Holcim Australia to advance HRM manufacturing and its use in concrete
- HRM can lower both energy and emissions associated with producing concrete
- Both parties will seek to negotiate terms for potential offtake and collaborate on securing potential government funding
Special Report: Zeotech is advancing plans to use high reactivity metakaolin to significantly reduce emissions associated with producing concrete through a memorandum of understanding with Holcim Australia.
The non-binding agreement with Holcim – one of the largest integrated suppliers and manufacturers of building materials and solutions in Australia and New Zealand – establishes the framework to collaborate and advance high reactivity metakaolin (HRM) manufacturing and its use in concrete.
HRM can be used to replace a significant portion of clinker – a mix of limestone and other minerals – that typically makes up the majority of Portland cement, which is the main binding agent in concrete.
This can significantly reduce emissions and energy use associated with producing cement as producing clinker not only requires heat but releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as the limestone is heated.
Under the MoU, which also covers negotiations for the terms of an offtake agreement, Zeotech (ASX:ZEO) will provide Holcim with up to 10t of HRM for concrete pilot trials.
This will allow for further commercial validation while the exchange of technical information and test results will support completion of a preliminary feasibility study (PFS).
ZEO previously supplied Holcim with kaolin samples for testing and a report prepared by Central Queensland University confirming that a HRM exceeding the Australian Standard and ASTM International Standard for a manufactured pozzolan can be produced from kaolin sourced from its Toondoon project.
Further collaboration
Both parties have agreed to collaborate on potential State or Federal Government funding to develop low emissions technologies associated with metakaolin production or Holcim Australia products.
They will also consider the potential for joint ventures or alternative profit-sharing structures pursuant to metakaolin manufacturing using Zeotech’s high-grade raw ore kaolin and the associated financing and construction of any such facilities.
“We are pleased to work with one of Australia’s leading sustainable building materials suppliers and validate Zeotech’s HRM strategy,” Zeotech managing director Peter Zardo said.
“The MOU provides a framework for ongoing collaboration and the supply of larger volumes of Zeotech’s HRM to Holcim for concrete pilot trials, which will aid the completion of a feasibility study and may lead to future commercial arrangements.”
This article was developed in collaboration with Zeotech, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.
This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.
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