Scott Bros concrete plant to cut carbon emissions by 25%
Scott Bros, a recycling specialist based in Haverton Hill, near Stockton, has collaborated with Teesside University to create a sustainable alternative to the carbon-intensive Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC).
The substitute, known as ‘activated filter cake,’ is a fine-grained clay by-product produced by Scott Bros’ wash plants, which convert construction and excavation waste into commercial aggregate.
The plant, which cost Β£1 million, has already produced concrete blocks across a range of grades after several months of commissioning.
Full-scale production is set to begin in May, with the facility capable of producing more than 480 cubic metres of low-carbon concrete per day using the company’s recycled sand and gravel.
Scott Bros secured a Β£612,000 grant from Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, the UK’s innovation agency.
The grant was used in partnership with Teesside University’s School of Science, Engineering & Digital Technologies to determine how much OPC could be replaced without compromising the strength and durability of conventional concrete.
The production of OPC accounts for approximately 5 to 8 per cent of global COβ emissions.
A 25 per cent reduction in OPC can significantly lower the environmental footprint of concrete, one of the most commonly used construction materials.
Scott Bros is continuing its long-term collaboration with Teesside University to investigate further reductions in OPC usage, including the development of alternative binding agents.
Joss Newberry, operating and monitoring officer for Innovate UK, said: “Two key aspects of this project really stood out.
“The first is the urgent need to decarbonise the economy, and the second is Scott Brosβ expertise in the recycling sector, strengthened by its long-standing partnership with Teesside University.
“Itβs fantastic to see the concrete plant nearing commercial production β a great example of how the innovative use of waste materials is helping drive progress towards net-zero goals.”
Peter Scott, a director of Scott Bros, said: “Achieving a 25 per cent reduction in OPC is a significant milestone in our mission to create more sustainable construction materials.
“We’re continuing our work with Teesside University to explore further opportunities for innovative, low-carbon alternatives using recycled waste.
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“Our long-term ambition is to eliminate OPC entirely and produce concrete made solely from recycled and sustainable materials.”
Fellow director, Bob Borthwick, added: “This project highlights our commitment to advancing the circular economy on both a regional and national level.
“Through the use of activated filter cake, together with our recycled aggregate, we are supporting the construction industry to meet its carbon reduction targets while contributing to a greener future.”