NeoCem to build calcined clay plant

NeoCem unveils groundbreaking green cement technology

reg}NeoCem is set to establish a flash calcination clay production facility in Saint-Maximin, Oise, with a capacity of 100,000 tons per annum. This innovative venture aims to reduce CO2 emissions in cement manufacturing by utilizing clay derived from construction site excavations.

Through four years of intensive research, the company has developed a pioneering technology that enhances the eco-friendliness of cement. The process is known as flash calcination, whereby the clay is crushed, dried, and heated to 750˚C. It is then mixed with clinker and limestone and no longer needs to be reheated, according to Christophe Deboffe, founder and president of NeoCem and its parent, Neo-Eco group, based in Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin, near Lille. 

According to the company, the conventional production of one ton of cement releases approximately 800 kg of CO2 into the atmosphere. NeoCem's innovative flash calcination method slashes this emission to a mere 150 kg per ton, marking a remarkable fivefold reduction.

The plant represents an investment of EUR23m (US$24.9m), primarily financed by a consortium of regional institutional investors and Bpifrance, it is anticipated to start operations by the end of 1Q25. Additionally, there is land available to double the production capacity at a later time.{/reg}