Adding nitrogen to concrete has the potential to significantly reduce global levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted by the construction industry in developing towns and cities, according to a new study. Researchers estimate that this process could reduce NOx emissions by 6-13% in 2021 and by a total of 131-384 Mt by 2050. This reduction in NOx emissions could have a significant impact on improving air quality and reducing health risks associated with respiratory diseases caused by air pollution.
NOx are highly reactive toxic air pollutants that can contribute to acid rain, ozone layer depletion, and pose significant health threats. By commercializing nitrogenation, researchers believe it offers better economic and environmental prospects than similar processes related to carbon dioxide. This technology could potentially save 75-260 years of potential lost to premature death and reduced quality of life, estimated in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALY). Addressing and managing NOx emissions is crucial for enhancing urban health, fostering sustainable industrial growth, and ensuring environmental well-being.
The researchers emphasize the significant potential of concrete in capturing NOx and believe that applying this technology holds promise for rapidly urbanizing and emerging industrial regions. By using nitrogenated concrete, these areas could reduce industrial NOx pollution while generating substantial economic value and managing construction waste more effectively. China, Europe, and the United States are identified as key players in this area, with the capacity to contribute significantly to reducing NOx emissions and promoting circular economies to address atmospheric environmental concerns.
Setting up an emissions trading system, similar to the one already in place for CO2, is recommended to quantify the advantages associated with NOx sequestration more precisely. Despite the environmental and economic benefits of concrete nitrogenation, practical application faces challenges related to transporting large volumes of materials and gases. The experts suggest using established industrial and commercial concrete carbonation systems to optimize the logistics network and enhance the feasibility of implementing concrete nitrogenation on a larger scale. By addressing these challenges, the potential benefits of reducing NOx emissions through concrete nitrogenation could be realized in a more efficient and effective way.
In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of adding nitrogen to concrete as a solution for reducing NOx emissions from the construction industry and improving air quality in urban areas. This technology offers economic and environmental benefits and could help to mitigate the health risks associated with air pollution. By promoting concrete nitrogenation and establishing emissions trading systems, countries can work towards reducing NOx emissions and creating a more sustainable and healthier environment for future generations. Further research and development in this area could lead to widespread adoption of concrete nitrogenation as a method to address air pollution and promote sustainable development in urban areas.