Rapid and Continuous RCA Carbonation With Vapor Loss Minimization

The purpose of this project is to provide proof of concept for Nalari Scientific’s Aggregate Carbonation System, that provides a means of continuous, high-throughput, carbonation of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA), in a portable, easy to use, easy to maintain system. This system will enhance the performance of RCA for concrete manufacture, improving workability and concrete strength, while significantly reducing the cost of manufacture and lowering the CO2 emissions of concrete pavement projects. The project uses Nalari Scientific’s proprietary inlet and outlet aggregate regulators that provide continuous aggregate feed while preventing vapor loss, along with a carbonation chamber ensuring proper aggregate hydration and carbonation. This proof of concept will be shown by building a ~? scale demonstration device, with comprehensive technical evaluation of the methods, and establishing validation techniques that are usable by technicians in practical operation. Based on production costs and energy consumption, the project will compare the economic and environmental costs of concrete manufacture using carbonated recycled concrete aggregate, versus newly mined aggregates, assuming a variety of transport distance scenarios.