How First Graphene’s 600-Tonne Cement Batch Could Transform Sustainable Construction
First Graphene has successfully produced 600 tonnes of graphene enhanced cement, marking a key milestone in sustainable construction with significant CO2 reductions and multiple UK trial projects underway.
- 600 tonnes of PureGRAPH-CEM graphene enhanced cement produced at Breedon’s UK facility
- Up to 16% reduction in CO2 emissions through lower clinker use
- Cement to be used in sustainable roof tiles and infrastructure projects across the UK
- Collaborations with FP McCann, Morgan Sindall, Breedon, and University of Manchester
- Interest from UK and Australian organisations for further testing volumes
A Milestone in Sustainable Cement Production
First Graphene Limited (ASX – FGR) has announced a landmark achievement with the successful production of approximately 600 tonnes of graphene enhanced cement at Breedon Group’s Hope Cement Works in Derbyshire, UK. This volume represents one of the largest commercial-scale productions of low-carbon cement incorporating graphene additives, underscoring the commercial viability of this advanced material in the construction sector.
The cement incorporates First Graphene’s proprietary PureGRAPH-CEM additive, which was integrated during the final milling stage of production. This innovation enables a reduction in the use of clinker, a carbon-intensive component of cement, resulting in up to a 16% decrease in CO2 emissions. Such a reduction is significant in an industry traditionally challenged by high carbon footprints.
Applications and Partnerships Driving Adoption
The produced graphene enhanced cement is earmarked for several high-profile projects across the UK. Notably, FP McCann will incorporate 30 to 40 tonnes into thousands of concrete roof tiles at its Cadeby manufacturing plant. These tiles will undergo rigorous testing over five months to evaluate material efficiency and waste reduction, aligning with the UK Government’s ambitious plan to deliver over one million affordable, sustainable homes by 2029.
In addition, infrastructure projects led by Morgan Sindall and Breedon will utilize the cement, further demonstrating its versatility and appeal across different construction applications. The University of Manchester will also conduct compressive strength testing to analyze the performance benefits of the graphene enhanced concrete.
Broader Industry Interest and Environmental Impact
Beyond these projects, First Graphene has received multiple requests from organisations in both the UK and Australia seeking trial volumes of the material for diverse applications. This growing interest highlights the potential for graphene enhanced cement to become a key component in sustainable construction globally.
Breedon Group’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its adoption of this technology, positioning it as a leader among UK cement producers in reducing environmental impact. The collaboration between First Graphene and its partners exemplifies how advanced materials can contribute to decarbonising heavy industries.
First Graphene’s Managing Director Michael Bell emphasised the significance of this milestone, noting the product’s scalability and performance benefits. As trials progress, the industry will be watching closely to see how graphene enhanced cement can reshape construction practices and support global carbon reduction targets.
Bottom Line?
As trial results emerge, First Graphene’s graphene enhanced cement could redefine sustainable building materials and accelerate industry decarbonisation.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the detailed performance and durability results from the University of Manchester’s testing reveal?
- How quickly can First Graphene scale production to meet growing demand from UK and Australian markets?
- What are the commercial terms and margins associated with these partnerships and future contracts?
