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Impact of PCC on Reduction of Carbon Footprint

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Dr Bibekananda Mohapatra, Director General, National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB), shares insights from the extensive research for development of low carbon cements such as Portland Composite Cement (PCC).

India has updated its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) based on the commitment of the Honourable Prime Minister at the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP26) held in Glasgow, in November 2021. India presented to the world five nectar elements (Panchamrit) of India’s climate action into enhanced climate targets. The new climate action targets ‘Panchamrit’ by India included:

  • Net Zero target for India by the year 2070;
  • Achieving carbon intensity reduction of 45 per cent over 2005 levels by 2030; reducing 1 billion tonnes of projected emissions from now till 2030;
  • Installing non-fossil fuel electricity capacity of 500 GW by 2030; and
    Sourcing 50 per cent of energy requirements from renewables by 2030.

Recently, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published a report on global warming. The report highlighted that limiting the increase in global temperature to 1.5°C requires achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions globally in the early 2050s. As per IPCC report, major transitions in the energy and industrial sector will be required to limit global warming such as:

  • substantial reduction in fossil fuel use
  • widespread electrification
  • improved energy efficiency
  • use of alternative fuels (such as hydrogen)
  • using materials more efficiently
  • reusing and recycling products
  • minimising waste

Globally, the cement sector generates about 7 per cent of the total anthropogenic emissions. In India, the energy consumption and process emissions from cement industry contributes about 4.2 per cent and 2.1 per cent of the total Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions of 2531.1 million tonnes CO2 equivalent in 2016 (Source: Third biennial update report of India to UNFCCC). Therefore, the cement sector in India has an important role to play to achieve the enhanced climate targets.

The low carbon roadmap has identified clinker substitution and Carbon Capture and Utilisation as having the highest potential for reduction in carbon footprint


In hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, it is technologically very difficult to reduce the process related CO2 emissions. The sources of CO2 emissions in cement manufacture are categorised as direct sources, which includes calcination (55-60 per cent), combustion (25-30 per cent) and indirect sources of CO2 including electricity (8-10 per cent) and transportation (2-5 per cent) as shown in Fig 1. The Indian cement industry has been working on the issue of its GHG emissions and has brought down the CO2 emission factor from 1.12 t of CO2/t of cement in 1996 to 0.670 t of CO2/t of cement in 2017.


The global cement industry and cement associations worldwide have prepared roadmaps to achieve Net Zero Concrete to meet the sector commitments for reduction of GHG emissions in line with their respective national commitments at COP 26. Last year, Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), CEMBUREAU and Portland Cement Association (PCA) announced roadmaps to achieve Carbon Neutrality across the cement and concrete value chain by 2050 with the highest contribution from carbon capture and utilisation.
The journey towards decarbonisation of Indian cement industry started in 2012 with preparation of a Low Carbon Technology Roadmap specifically for the Indian cement industry, when International Energy Agency (IEA) and Cement Sustainability Initiative (CSI), in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) prepared this document.

The identified levers in the low carbon technology roadmap of the Indian cement industry are:
i. Substitution of clinker
ii. Alternative fuel and raw materials
iii. Improving energy efficiency
iv. Installation of Waste Heat Recovery (WHS)
v. Newer technologies like renewable energy, novel cements, carbon capture and storage/utilisation.
The first four levers have already been implemented by the Indian cement industry and the impact has already been reflected in the reduction of CO2 emission factor from cement industry. The specific direct CO2 emissions of major cement companies in the year 2021-22 is given in Table 1 below:


The low carbon roadmap identified clinker substitution and Carbon Capture and Utilisation as having the highest potential for reduction in carbon footprint of the Indian Cement Industry as shown in Fig. 2. India is blessed to have supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash and blast furnace slag. In 2021-22, 270.8 million tonnes of fly ash and about 12 million tonnes of blast furnace slag were generated in our country. Apart from annual generation, 1,700 million tonnes of legacy fly ash lie at various thermal power plants in our country.


The Indian Cement Industry is quite proactive and has taken several steps to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions systematically following the low carbon technology roadmap. This reduction in the carbon footprint of the cement industry could have been achieved due to production of low carbon blended cements like Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC) and Portland Slag Cement (PSC).


The production of blended cements like PPC and PSC has seen constant increase since the year 1995 when only 30 per cent blended cements were produced in India as compared to 2017, when the production of blended cements has increased to 73 per cent as shown in Fig 3. This could have been achieved due to acceptance of blended cements in Indian markets by the awareness efforts of cement companies and research organisations like NCB.
Keeping in line with the current global scenario, NCB in its endeavour to help the cement industry realise the target of net zero carbon by 2070 has been working on various levers of CO2 reduction especially clinker substitution.
Accordingly, NCB has undertaken extensive research for development of low carbon
cements like:

  • Portland Composite Cement based on fly ash and limestone
  • Composite cement based on fly ash and slag
  • Portland Limestone Cement
  • Geopolymer cement
  • Multi component blended cement
  • Portland dolomite Cement

The impact of low carbon cements like PCC based on fly ash and limestone on carbon footprint of Indian Cement Industry is discussed below:

PCC based on Fly Ash and Limestone
The blended cements, which are produced using more than one mineral addition, are known as composite cements. Fly ash conforming to IS 3812 (Part 1): 2003 and granulated blast furnace slag conforming to IS 12089: 1987 are used in the manufacture of composite cements (16415-2015) with 15-35 per cent and 20-50 per cent respectively. Presently there is almost complete utilisation of granulated blast furnace slag in India. However, utilisation of fly ash in manufacture of PPC is still only 25 per cent out of around 270 million tonnes generated annually. Additionally, India has large reserves of low grade, dolomitic and siliceous limestones, manufacture of limestone and fly ash based composite cements will reduce the impact of CO2 on environment, utilisation of industrial wastes and enable production of cements with lower clinker factor leading to resource conservation, enhanced waste utilisation and greater sustainability in cement manufacture. In this study, PCC blends were prepared (140 nos) with four types of clinker from different regions of India along with the regional available fly ash (15-35 per cent) and limestone (5, 7 and 10 per cent). The results depicted that the clinker quality plays an important role on performance of limestone and fly ash based composite cements. NCB studies indicated PCC based on limestone and fly ash with 35 per cent replacement of clinker by fly ash and limestone (keeping limestone content up to 7 per cent in it). NCB has submitted the report to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for standard formulation and it is under consideration of BIS.

Comparison of CO2 Emissions
The specific CO2 emissions associated with various types of cements like OPC, PPC, PSC, composite cement based on fly ash and slag, PCC and PLC are calculated considering the typical composition of cements as given in Table 2. The composition of PCC is taken as 60 per cent clinker, 28 per cent fly ash, 7 per cent limestone and 5 per cent gypsum whereas the composition of PLC is taken as 80 per cent clinker, 15 per cent limestone and 5 per cent gypsum as shown in Table 2.


For calculating the specific CO2 emissions of each type of cement, the contribution of CO2 from calcination, fuel combustion and electricity have been taken into consideration. The comparison of the specific CO2 emission for various cements is shown in Fig 4. The CO2 intensity of OPC is 842 kg CO2 per tonne, whereas it is 536 kg CO2 per tonne for PCC, and 703 kg CO2 per tonne for PLC. The major contributors for CO2 intensity reduction of low carbon cements as compared to OPC are the varying clinker content and the different grinding energy requirement for the cements. The grinding energy required for PCC and PLC is considered lower as compared to PPC as limestone acts as a grinding agent.

As shown in Fig 4, the specific CO2 emissions from PCC production are equivalent to PPC. The availability of fly ash will gradually reduce due to the focus of the Government of India on renewable energy generation and utilisation of alternative fuels in thermal power plants. In this scenario, PCC will emerge as a viable alternate option to PPC, with utilisation of lower grade of limestone replacing portions of fly ash. As compared to specific CO2 emissions of 842 kg per tonne of OPC, the specific CO2 emissions associated with PCC are 536 kg CO2 per tonne i.e., about 36 per cent lower. Thus, the replacement of OPC by low carbon cements like PCC will result in a lower carbon footprint of the Indian cement industry.


Presently, 27 per cent OPC is produced, out of the total cement mix produced in India. Table 3 showcases different scenarios of CO2 reduction due to gradual replacement of OPC at varying per cent by PCC ranging from 1 per cent to 50 per cent as shown in Table 3. PCC has a potential to reduce CO2 emissions up to 61.1 million tonnes in the next 10 years by 2030, if 50 per cent OPC may be replaced by PCC after standard formulation by BIS.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. BN Mohapatra is the Director General of National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCCBM).
He is a Phd in Cement Mineral Chemistry, enriched with 13 years of research and development and over 22 years of industry experience with a strong academic relations with premier institutes. He is the chairman of the Cement Sectoral Committee of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE).

Concrete

Driving Sustainability Through Innovation

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The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will spotlight India’s cement industry’s growth, innovation, and sustainability, showcasing cutting-edge solutions for a greener future.

The cement industry in India, the second-largest in the world, is on the cusp of remarkable growth as it continues its transition toward sustainability, innovation, and expansion. The 15th Cement Expo 2025, scheduled for November 12-13, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in Delhi, will be the premier event where the industry’s foremost stakeholders converge to explore state-of-the-art technologies and solutions.
Co-located with the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference and the 9th Indian Cement Review Awards, the expo promises to be a pivotal event for professionals in the cement, construction, and infrastructure sectors. This year’s theme, “Driving Sustainability Through Technology,” highlights the sector’s commitment to decarbonisation, efficiency, and technological advancement. With India poised to add 80 to 100 million tonnes of cement capacity by 2024-25, the event will address the urgent need for sustainable, low-carbon solutions to meet the growing demand.
Before we look ahead to the 15th Cement Expo, let’s reflect on the remarkable success of the Cement Expo Forum 2025, held on March 5-6, 2025, in Hyderabad. The event attracted over 500 industry professionals and featured groundbreaking discussions on sustainability, logistics, and decarbonisation. Key sponsors and partners, such as ABB, Gebr Pfeiffer, JK Cement, and Flender Drives, showcased their latest innovations, contributing to the forum’s success.
Pratap Padode, Founder and President of First Construction Council, spoke at the event, noting, “The PPP pipeline is complemented by a provision of Rs 1.5 trillion in interest-free loans to states, earmarked for capital expenditure. With this, we have a solid plan in place. What needs to be done is to ensure that the PPP actually takes off as envisaged. To make this happen, trust must be established, and policies must be investor-friendly. Telangana, in this regard, has demonstrated ease of doing business exceptionally well.”
He added, “These financial injections into the infrastructure sector are expected to create a ripple effect, driving demand for cement as a key material in construction and development projects. The growing demand for cement is evident as infrastructure projects continue to rise across the country.”
The forum also provided invaluable networking opportunities, with attendees gaining insights from over 35 distinguished speakers and connecting with more than 50 exhibitors. The event laid a strong foundation for the upcoming Expo, showcasing the significant strides the cement industry is making toward a greener, more efficient future.
The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will focus on advancing the industry’s next big step toward sustainable growth. With India’s cement sector making significant progress in decarbonisation, a key focus will be on technologies and innovations that support carbon capture, low-carbon cement production, and energy-efficient solutions.
The expo will feature over 50 exhibitors representing all aspects of the cement industry. Whether you are a manufacturer, raw material supplier, technology provider, or logistics partner, the Cement Expo 2025 offers an ideal platform to showcase your products and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in cement production technology, automation, logistics, and environmental solutions, all geared toward building a greener and more sustainable future.
Exhibitor profiles will include cement manufacturers, raw material suppliers, technology and automation solutions providers, environmental and sustainability solutions providers, cement packaging and logistics, construction equipment manufacturers, admixtures and chemical suppliers, and concrete reinforcement and structural systems.

11th Indian Cement Review Conference

Held alongside the Expo, the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference will offer delegates invaluable insights into the latest trends and innovations shaping the cement industry. Focusing on sustainability, the conference will address critical issues such as energy efficiency, plant design, and emerging technologies like carbon capture and automation.
Industry leaders will share their expertise in technical forums, while specialised activities, such as plant tours and energy audits, will provide practical guidance on improving operations and efficiency. This is a prime opportunity to network with industry stakeholders, gain hands-on experience with new technologies, and acquire actionable knowledge to enhance your business.

9th Indian Cement Review Awards

The 9th Indian Cement Review Awards will recognise the fastest-growing cement companies and industry leaders for their outstanding contributions to the sector. This prestigious event will serve as a platform to honour the pioneers of innovation, sustainability, and performance within the cement industry, highlighting the sector’s commitment to growth and environmental responsibility.
As we look forward to the 15th Cement Expo 2025, we invite you to join us for two exciting days of networking, learning, and innovation. This event offers a unique opportunity to be part of the next wave of growth and sustainability in the global cement sector.

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Transforming Interior Spaces: Trendy Wall Putty Designs to Enhance Your Home

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When it comes to interior design, walls are more than just structural elements—they serve as the canvas for self-expression, setting the mood and personality of a space. While paint and wallpaper have long been the go-to choices for wall finishes, wall putty is emerging as a game-changer in home décor. With its smooth finish, durability, and versatility, wall putty opens a world of creative possibilities. In this article, we explore trendy wall putty designs that can elevate your interiors, turning ordinary walls into extraordinary design statements.
Wall Putty is a Must-Have in Modern Homes
Wall putty is no longer just a preparatory material for painting; it plays a significant role in modern home aesthetics. It enhances the finish of walls, making them smoother, stronger, and resistant to cracks and moisture. Additionally, high-quality putty like Birla White Wall Putty ensures better paint adhesion, resulting in long-lasting vibrancy.
Beyond its functional benefits, wall putty allows homeowners to experiment with textures and patterns, giving walls a designer touch without the hassle of high-maintenance materials like stone or wood. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist, rustic, or ultra-modern aesthetic, wall putty designs can help achieve the look effortlessly.
Trendy Wall Putty Designs for Stunning Interiors
1. Textured Wall Putty for a Tactile Appeal
Textured walls are a popular interior trend, adding depth and dimension to living spaces. By using wall putty, homeowners can create a variety of textures, including:
  • Rustic Texture: Mimicking natural stone or aged plaster for an earthy, vintage feel.
  • Wave Patterns: Adding a sense of movement and fluidity to walls, perfect for living rooms and entryways.
  • Sand Finish: A subtle grainy effect that provides a sophisticated touch.
Textured putty walls work exceptionally well in accent areas, such as behind a television unit or as a backdrop for artwork.
2. Sleek and Smooth Walls for a Luxurious Look
For those who prefer a refined and elegant aesthetic, a smooth putty finish is ideal. A flawlessly smooth wall creates a premium appearance, amplifying the impact of high-quality paints. Opting for a high-performance putty like Birla White WallCare Putty ensures a glass-like finish that complements modern and contemporary interiors.
This design is perfect for:
  • Monochrome interiors where walls serve as a sleek backdrop.
  • High-gloss or matte-painted walls that need a seamless base.
  • Spaces with minimal décor where the walls themselves make a statement.
3. Geometric & Abstract Patterns for a Contemporary Edge
Wall putty can be artistically applied to create striking geometric or abstract patterns, adding a unique character to interiors.
Popular designs include:
  • Chevron or Herringbone: A dynamic, sophisticated look that pairs well with both modern and mid-century décor.
  • 3D Raised Panels: Using putty to craft subtle raised patterns, adding a sculptural effect to the wall.
  • Asymmetrical Shapes: For a bold and avant-garde touch.
  • These patterns work best in bedrooms, study areas, or accent walls in open spaces.
4. Venetian Plaster for a Luxe European Aesthetic
Venetian plaster, an age-old technique, is making a grand comeback in modern interiors. With wall putty, you can achieve this exquisite marble-like effect, which exudes luxury and timeless charm.
This design works well for:
  • Statement walls in living rooms and foyers.
  • Elegant dining areas where a touch of opulence is desired.
  • Boutique-style bedrooms with a rich, textured finish.
A high-quality white cement-based putty can replicate this effect beautifully, making the walls look naturally luminous.
5. Dual-Tone or Ombre Walls for a Soft Gradient Effect
The ombre effect, a gradient transition between two colors, is a trendy and artistic way to enhance interiors. When applied over a smooth wall putty base, the gradient blends seamlessly, offering a dreamy, watercolor-like appeal.
This style is perfect for:
  • Children’s rooms or play areas, creating a fun and dynamic atmosphere.
  • Bedrooms with a soothing pastel gradient for a calming effect.
  • Dining spaces where a bold color fade adds character.
6. Metallic & Glossy Finishes for a Chic Look
For homeowners who love glamour and sophistication, combining wall putty with metallic paints or glossy finishes can create a high-end appeal. The smooth base of putty enhances the reflective qualities of metallic shades like gold, silver, or bronze, resulting in an opulent and dramatic effect.
Best suited for:
  • Luxurious master bedrooms and dressing areas.
  • Accent walls in dining rooms or home bars.
  • Commercial spaces like boutiques and salons.
How to Achieve the Best Wall Putty Designs
  • Choose the Right Putty: Opt for a premium wall putty like Birla White WallCare Putty to ensure durability, a smooth finish, and long-lasting appeal.
  • Prepare the Surface: Ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free from loose particles before application.
  • Apply in Layers: Depending on the design, putty can be applied in single or multiple layers for the desired effect.
  • Use the Right Tools: Trowels, spatulas, sponges, or patterned rollers help create specific textures and patterns.
  • Seal with Paint or Polish: Once the putty is dry, finishing it with paint, polish, or protective coatings enhances its aesthetic and durability.
Conclusion
Wall putty has evolved beyond its traditional role, now serving as a medium for creative interior design. Whether you prefer textured finishes, sleek smooth walls, or artistic patterns, wall putty designs can elevate your home’s aesthetics while offering durability and elegance. By selecting the  best putty for wall and application technique, you can transform your interior walls into stunning masterpieces, setting the perfect backdrop for your lifestyle.
For high-quality wall finishes that stand the test of time, Birla White WallCare Putty ensures both beauty and performance, making your dream interiors a reality.

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Dalmia Bharat to add 6 MnTPA Cement Capacity in Maharashtra and Karnataka

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  • Investment in alignment with the strategic goal of becoming a PAN India company and achieving 75 MnT capacity by FY28
  • Increases capacity primarily to meet growing demand in Western India along with existing regions

Dalmia Bharat Limited, one of India’s leading cement companies, through its subsidiaries, has announced a strategic investment of approximately Rs 3,520 Crore in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. As part of this initiative, the company will establish a 3.6 MnTPA clinker unit and a 3 MnTPA grinding unit at its existing Belgaum plant, Karnataka coupled with a new greenfield split grinding unit with a capacity of 3 MnTPA in Pune, Maharashtra. The capex will be funded through a combination of debt and internal accruals. With this expansion, Dalmia Bharat’s total installed cement capacity will increase to 55.5 MnTPA, after considering the ongoing expansion of 2.9 MnT at Assam and Bihar. These new units are expected to be commissioned by Q4 FY27.

The Belgaum Grinding Unit will cater to the underserved Southern Maharashtra markets while enhancing share in the existing region by improving penetration. On the other hand, Pune Grinding Unit will entirely cater to the untapped Western Maharashtra markets. The initiative is a part of the company’s vision to be a PAN India player and achieve 75 MnTPA capacity by FY28 and 110-130 MnT by 2031.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “This investment is a significant step in our Phase II expansion strategy, bringing us closer to strengthen our position as a pan-India player and to reach intermittent goal of 75 MnT capacity by FY28. The increase in our production capacity is primarily to meet the growing infrastructure demand in Western India.” He further added, “We remain committed in realising our goals of capacity expansion, while staying focused on operational excellence and creating long-term value for our stakeholders. The capacity additions will also continue to be in line with Dalmia Bharat’s sustainability-driven approach and its commitment to supporting India’s infrastructure and development goals.”

About Dalmia Bharat: Founded in 1939, Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL) (BSE/NSE Symbol: DALBHARAT) is one of India’s pioneering cement companies headquartered in New Delhi. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 46.6 MnT, Dalmia Bharat Limited (including its subsidiaries) is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing company in India by installed capacity. Spread across 10 states and 15 manufacturing units.  Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited, prides itself at having one of the lowest carbon footprint in the cement world globally. It is the first cement company to commit to RE100, EP100 and EV100 (first triple joiner) – showing real business leadership in the clean energy transition by taking a joined-up approach.

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