The second Annual World Concrete India Awards 2024 was held in Mumbai on October 17, 2024, and LC3 (Limestone Calcined Clay Cement) was honoured with “Product of the Year – Cement & Concrete” award. This Award now puts LC3 in a position to revolutionise the entire cement industry as LC3 cement promotes innovative work that drives sustainability in this critical sector.
LC3, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement, hails as a groundbreaking solution with immense potential to reduce carbon emissions and improve resource efficiency in the construction industry. Dr. Soumen Maity, the Chief Technology Officer of Technology and Action for Rural Advancement (TARA), part of the Development Alternatives Group accepted the award. Dr. Maity emphasised the pivotal role that LC3 can play in transforming the cement industry. He highlighted that the development and implementation of LC3 would not have been possible without the robust collaboration of academia and industry leaders. Special recognition was given to academic institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, the University of Queensland, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and other key partners across India and beyond.
A Revolution in Cement
LC3 has become a game changing innovation in the cement industry and bridges the gap of meeting sustainable needs without compromising the economy. The traditionally used Portland Cement production process is infamous for being highly energy- intensive and is responsible for large amount of carbon emissions. LC3 on the other hand is more sustainable in the production process as it incorporates limestone, calcined clay and a minimal clinker content. This blend drastically reduces carbon emissions by up to 40 percent.
LC3 has several environmental benefits that do not just stop at reduction of carbon emissions but also reduces the reliance on high-quality limestone, a non-renewable resource. LC3 maximises the use of available resources which includes non-cement-grade limestone and clay thereby supporting a circular economy.
In the future, more sustainable products like LC3 are expected to catalyse further innovations in sustainable construction practices. With continued support from academia, industry, and policy makers, LC3 is positioned to play a critical role in shaping the future towards a sustainable and green construction.