8–11 Jun 2026
SwissTech Convention Center EPFL
Europe/Zurich timezone

PRECIZE: A Novel Approach to Decarbonizing Specialty binders through Hydrogen Combustion

9 Jun 2026, 10:20
20m
SwissTech Convention Center EPFL

SwissTech Convention Center EPFL

SwissTech Convention Center, EPFL, Rue Louis Favre 2, Ecublens, Switzerland
Oral Presentation Manufacture Manufacture

Speaker

Bela Kumar (Imerys Technology Center Lyon)

Description

Addressing the significant CO₂ emissions from calcium aluminate cement (CAC) production is a critical challenge for the building and infrastructure sectors, with fossil fuels accounting for a large portion of the greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint. To tackle this, we initiated the PRECIZE project, a strategic collaboration with Air Liquide, LGC, and CEMHTI. Funded by the French state as part of the France 2030 program and operated by ADEME, this initiative is a strategic component of our commitment to science-based targets. One of the key objectives of this project is to demonstrate a scalable pathway to decarbonize CAC production by replacing fossil fuels with a carbon-free alternative like hydrogen. Our study presents the methodology and findings of a successful 12-day pilot trial conducted at our Dunkerque site, detailing the progressive transition from a mixture of 100% natural gas to a 100% hydrogen. The results of this extensive pilot trial will be presented in this paper. We will provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact on CAC quality and performance, as well as on kiln behavior and stability.

Affiliations

Imerys Technology Center Lyon, 1, rue Le Chatelier, 38090, Vaulx Milieu, France, bela.kumar@imerys.com

Keywords decarbonization, hydrogen fuel, calcium aluminate cements (CACs), CO₂ Emissions, performance

Author

Bela Kumar (Imerys Technology Center Lyon)

Co-authors

Mr Enrique Elorza Ricart Mr Hervé Fryda (Imerys Technology Center Lyon) Mr Nicolas Maach (Imerys Technology Center Lyon) Mr Xavier Abry (Imerys Technology Center Lyon)

Presentation materials

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