Yorkshire Water has begun using a ceramic surface treatment that it says will reduce its carbon emissions from capital investment projects by 23 per cent during AMP7.
The ceramic polymer, made by Haydale, contains alumina and zirconia silicates that bond to concrete and protect assets from environmental deterioration.
The water sector has committed to cutting 10 million tonnes of carbon including from across all parts of businesses by 2030. Since 2011 the industry has reduced its emissions by 45 per cent and is now working to reach net zero as part of one of six Public Interest Commitments.
The process extends the life of existing assets and lengthens expectations for new structures. Yorkshire said the early indications of the trial show a carbon reduction of 43 per cent compared to traditional concrete.
Jonathan LeMoine, senior project manager at Yorkshire, said results will be “immediately apparent” from the trial and will pave the way for rolling out the programme to protect more assets.
The substance reduces concrete corrosion, stabilises the surface chemistry of concrete, stops carbonation and exposure-driven erosion.
LeMoine added: “We often invest in trialling new technologies and techniques to pave the way for lower emissions in our capex and opex solutions. We’re excited to see the results from this trial, and hope that it will provide a low carbon alternative to demolishing and rebuilding.”
Elsewhere, the company has converted a tanker to run on hydrogen as it explores options to decarbonise its fleet.