In the broadest sense, the scope of activities of Limak Cement’s R&D and Innovation unit includes developing new products and methods, implementing cost-reducing and quality-enhancing technologies, integrating new technologies into existing systems, and advancing new product and production processes based on innovative technologies at both national and international levels. More specifically, the ultimate goal is to achieve and sustain innovative, environmentally-friendly green cement and concrete production. The key methods employed to achieve this goal include collaboration with other energy-intensive industries to support the circular economy within the scope of industrial symbiosis, joint efforts with technology developers to enhance energy efficiency in production system optimization, and structured management processes with information providers, particularly to ensure the seamless execution of digital transformation initiatives. Our key focus areas also include the necessary efforts for policies aimed at reducing emissions, in line with our 2050 net-zero emission targets, through our carbon capture and zero-waste approach. Limak Cement leads green transformation in the cement industry with its R&D Center (LCTO) in line with the principles of sustainability and circular economy. These efforts are a key component of Limak Cement’s commitment to achieving its zero-carbon emission target.
3D Concrete Research
In 2023, the R&D Center launched Limak Cement 3DC-101, the first product in its innovative printable mortar series designed for use in 3D concrete printers, developed as part of its R&D efforts to combat climate change. Developed as part of innovative efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the product also offers advantages in lowering carbon emissions. By unlocking the potential for complex designs, fast construction, and cost efficiency in the construction industry with 3DC, Limak Cement combines the precision and efficiency of 3D concrete printing technology with the benefits of the innovatively designed Limak Cement 3DC-101. While contributing to the creation of sustainable and eco-friendly living spaces with this new product, innovation efforts will continue, keeping in mind the earthquake risk, which is a reality in our country.
Hydrogen Research
Limak Cement and Air Liquide, the global giant based in France, have formed a strategic partnership to develop a green hydrogen ecosystem aimed at transitioning to zero-carbon production in Türkiye’s cement industry. The first hydrogen-blended fuel supply was successfully carried out at Limak's cement factory in Ankara. During the testing phase at Limak Cement’s Polatlı Anka factory, the hydrogen-blended fuel was successfully tested in the cement rotary kiln. In this groundbreaking project in Türkiye's cement industry, 'grey hydrogen,' provided by Air Liquide and capable of being converted into green hydrogen in the future, was used as the test fuel. In this way, a hydrogen-blended 50% carbon-neutral fuel mixture was tested for the first time in Türkiye. This application is also a world first in terms of supplying hydrogen-blended carbon-neutral fuel into the inlet combustion chamber, instead of the main burner of the cement rotary kiln.
Construction and Demolition Waste
Since 2018, activities on Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) have been conducted at Limak Cement R&D Center (LCTO). In 2018, by receiving National Technical Approval (UTO) and European Technical Assessment (ETA) certificates, the use of alternative additives in cement production was proven through the production of cement with bottom ash, after which CDW research was accelerated. Following the earthquakes of February 6, R&D activities have been restructured to focus on the earthquake-affected regions.
With the TS EN 197-6 standard coming into effect on December 31, 2023, CDW can now be used not only as concrete aggregate but also as an alternative mineral additive in cement production. In this way, waste is reintegrated into the industry through the circular economy model, reducing both waste quantity and carbon footprint, while also aiming to provide employment through new recycling facilities. In this context, preliminary studies were completed using materials obtained from the UNDP CDW sorting facility in Hatay, and these materials were used for the first time in Türkiye as a mineral additive in the production of CEM II/A-M (F-V) 52.5 N type cement, in compliance with the TS EN 197-6 standard. The strategic importance of this work is significant, and industrial-scale production was carried out at Limak Cement’s Kilis factory.
With this project, the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) in the production of cement containing CDW has been raised for the first time in Türkiye, with the goal of increasing clinker substitution ratios. This high-strength, environmentally friendly, low-carbon product helps conserve natural resources.
In addition, LCTO's R&D activities extend the use of CDW beyond cement and ready-mixed concrete to include 3D concrete printing technology. By offering advantages such as fast construction times, design flexibility, and reduced material waste with 3D printing mortars, it paves the way for low-carbon and sustainable building applications.
