Cement's New Role
Cement, a fundamental building material, may soon take on a surprising new role: energy storage. This is thanks to the work of researchers at Aarhus University
in Denmark who have created a cement that also acts as a battery. This is a significant development, especially considering the environmental impact of traditional cement production. The manufacturing process of cement is energy-intensive, responsible for approximately 8% of global carbon pollution annually, significantly contributing to climate change and extreme weather events. The goal is to integrate this technology into buildings, walls, and foundations so that they can support renewable energy sources.
Battery-Powered Concrete
The researchers achieved this groundbreaking feat by incorporating the bacterium Shewanella oneidensis into the cement. This bacterium is capable of setting up a network of charge carriers within the cement, enabling it to store and release energy. The technology is designed to be integrated into real buildings, potentially supporting solar panels by providing local energy storage. Tests have shown promising results; the cement has been proven to work under extreme conditions, including freezing and hot temperatures. This would greatly reduce energy bills and dependence on dirty energy sources.
Reviving the Bacteria
What makes this technology even more remarkable is the bacteria's ability to be revived. The researchers have integrated a system of tiny channels within the cement, supplying the bacteria with the necessary proteins, vitamins, and salts to maintain their viability or to revive them if they die. If the bacteria die, they can still regain up to 80% of their original energy storage capacity once brought back to life. This innovative approach ensures the long-term functionality and sustainability of the cement battery, making it a viable option for future construction projects.
Impact and Future
The development of cement that acts as a battery promises to reduce pollution in several ways. It minimizes the need for mining materials like lithium and cobalt, essential components in traditional batteries. Even though the mining for these materials creates only a small percentage of pollution compared to fossil fuel mining, it still contributes to environmental damage. Although the production of this new cement may still contribute to pollution, its energy-storing capability can partially offset this impact. This innovation aligns with the broader goal of making buildings more sustainable and energy-efficient, offering a tangible step towards reducing carbon footprints in the construction sector.
