Limestone calcined clay cement LC3
Limestone calcined clay cement - also referred to as LC3 - is a form of cement that is being developed through a manufacturing process that is reduces CO2 emissions.
The production of LC3 requires limestone (15%) and low grade calcined clays (30%) to form a type of supplementary cementitious material or SCM. LC3 also requires gypsum (5%) and clinker (50%). While there is still clinker in LC3, the amount is significantly less than in Portland cement (up to 95%).
Clinker is not considered environmentally friendly, since it is produced at high temperatures. Producing SCM for LC3 requires less energy and so contributes to the CO2 reduction properties of LC3.
The development of LC3 began in 2004 with the exploration of calcined clays as a sustainable SCM replacement for clinker. Additional research has taken place with the support of various funding agencies to develop technical viability.
In 2020, additional funding was granted by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). With this support, experimental production of LC3 has begun in different parts of the world. Plans are underway to expand the scale of the project globally.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Clinker in construction.
- Concrete.
- Limestone for building.
- Portland cement.
- Urban mining to reinvent concrete.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
Homes England supports Greencore Homes
42 new build affordable sustainable homes in Oxfordshire.
Zero carbon social housing: unlocking brownfield potential
Seven ZEDpod strategies for brownfield housing success.
CIOB report; a blueprint for SDGs and the built environment
Pairing the Sustainable Development Goals with projects.
Types, tests, standards and fires relating to external cladding
Brief descriptions with an extensive list of fires for review.
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.