Abstract:
The cement and concrete sectors are known for their significant contribution to CO2 emissions.
Carbonation curing of concrete precast elements in a CO₂-rich atmosphere is a sustainable approach to
reducing the carbon footprint of these industries while simultaneously enhancing the mechanical properties
of cement-based materials. This study systematically investigates the influence of mix design and pre-
conditioning on CO₂ uptake efficiency and the mechanical performance of mortars. The findings highlight
that both factors play a crucial role in optimizing carbonation efficiency. Notably, the study demonstrates
that maximizing CO₂ sequestration of 3 wt.% of the mortar can be achieved through controlled pre-curing
while mechanical properties are preserved or even improved. This study confirms that carbonation curing
can be seamlessly integrated into the precast concrete manufacturing process without requiring additional
processing steps. This breakthrough paves the way for practical implementation in industrial settings,
offering the dual benefit of carbon reduction and material performance enhancement.
