CNBM Equipment Group has achieved a significant breakthrough in cement industry decarbonization, successfully commissioning a pioneering CO₂ purification project utilizing oxyfuel combustion technology in China. This project, completed in partnership with China United Cement Qingzhou Co., Ltd., marks the first demonstration of its kind globally for cement production. The achievement has been recognized with two prestigious awards from the World Cement Association (WCA), highlighting CNBM’s commitment to sustainable practices.
The project, launched in 2024, captures carbon dioxide emissions directly from the cement manufacturing process. CNBM Equipment Group, a leading engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) provider, is expanding its presence in the Middle East with a Dubai subsidiary and a service center currently under development in Saudi Arabia, aiming to localize its technology and contribute to regional sustainability goals.
Advancing Sustainable Cement Production Through Technological Innovation
The global cement industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, a challenge representing roughly 8% of worldwide CO₂ emissions, according to the International Energy Agency. Traditional cement production releases significant carbon dioxide through both the chemical process of calcination and the combustion of fuels to achieve high kiln temperatures. CNBM’s recent advancements demonstrate a pathway to meaningfully reduce these emissions.
The core of this initiative involves oxyfuel combustion, a process where pure oxygen is used instead of air in the cement kiln. This results in a flue gas stream that is highly concentrated in CO₂, making it easier and more cost-effective to capture. The captured CO₂ can then be stored or utilized in other industrial processes, such as enhanced oil recovery or the production of synthetic fuels.
Key Technologies Driving Decarbonization
Beyond oxyfuel combustion, CNBM Equipment Group is investing in a range of other technologies to improve sustainability in cement manufacturing. These include:
- Self-Denitrification: Implementing processes that reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.
- Alternative Fuels: Utilizing waste materials and biomass as fuel sources to displace traditional fossil fuels.
- LC3 (Limestone Calcined Clay Cement): Developing cement formulations that significantly reduce clinker content, the most carbon-intensive component of cement.
These efforts align with broader industry trends towards low-carbon cement and circular economy principles. Furthermore, the WCA awards—the 2024 Climate Action Technical and Engineering Award and the Climate Action Award—validate the efficacy and impact of CNBM’s integrated approach.
CNBM Equipment Group operates as an EPC+ Complete Chain System Service Expert, extending its capabilities beyond traditional engineering and construction. This encompasses project lifecycle management, spanning mining, raw material processing, process engineering, machinery, construction, structural design, automation, and environmental protection. This holistic approach allows the company to deliver optimized solutions tailored to specific client needs.
The company’s expertise in energy efficiency and decarbonization extends beyond cement, with ongoing projects in other industrial sectors. CNBM’s strategy involves leveraging its established foundation in the cement industry to expand its services and offer comprehensive solutions.
To support its growing presence in the Middle East, CNBM has established Sinoma Technology and Equipment Middle East Fze in Dubai. Additionally, a substantial service center is being developed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This 15,000 square meter facility, slated for completion next year, will provide equipment maintenance, upgrades, spare parts supply, and warehousing services, indicating a commitment to long-term local support.
CNBM’s approach towards digital transformation is another key aspect of its strategy. The integration of AI, APC (Advanced Process Control), and data analysis allows for smarter factory operation and enhanced process optimization. This “Al+APC+process mechanism” strategy aims to reduce energy consumption, improve product quality, and increase overall efficiency.
The company also emphasizes the development of digital intelligent factories through data platforms and the industrial internet. This move demonstrates a commitment to driving innovation and facilitating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies across the industry.
Looking ahead, CNBM Equipment Group expects to finalize the construction of its Saudi Arabian service center in 2025, which will strengthen its support capabilities in the region. The continued scaling of projects like the oxyfuel combustion demonstration will be critical as the industry seeks to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and achieve net-zero emissions targets. The success of these pilot projects will influence investment decisions and future policy frameworks surrounding carbon capture and storage technologies in the cement sector.
