In a first for the Saudi construction industry, materials science company Partanna Global partners with Saudi Readymix Concrete Company on the successful production of carbon-negative concrete blocks in the Gulf.
The technology was deployed at SRMCC’s main facility in Jeddah, the largest producer of ready-mixed concrete in Saudi Arabia.
The test-run at the facility utilized Partanna’s carbon-negative binder combined with Saudi Readymix’s existing aggregates. The process used zero traditional Portland cement and emitted no CO2 during production.
Globally the cement industry is estimated to be responsible for 9% of CO2 emissions. If cement were a country, it would be the third largest emitter on the planet.
According to Partanna CEO Rick Fox, the successful deployment at SRMCC’s plant evidenced the scalable and versatile nature of Partanna’s solution.
“The technology integrates seamlessly into existing operations, demonstrating its plug-and-play capability and the potential for rapid adoption across the industry without the need for extensive new infrastructure,” says Fox.
Saudi Arabia has been actively pursuing large-scale infrastructure projects, with over USD 1.25 trillion-worth of developments announced since the initiation of its National Transformation Plan in 2016.
According to Fox, the partnership between Partanna and SRMCC aligns closely with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims for a net zero future by 2060.
“Our successful partnership with Saudi Readymix showcases Partanna’s readiness to expand globally, supporting our mission to make construction more sustainable. We have shown conclusively that our introduction of the world’s first zero-emission material is both scalable and versatile, allowing companies to decarbonize and enhance profitability for a more sustainable future,” says Fox.
Commenting on the partnership, Saudi Readymix Technical Director Chris Leptokaridis says that the product will be an industry game-changer.
“Partanna has brought to the table a powerful innovation that aligns perfectly with Saudi Readymix’s vision for sustainable and forward-thinking construction solutions. We are truly impressed by the efficacy and environmental benefits of Partanna’s carbon-negative technology, and how it supports the kingdom’s Vision 2030. In our ambitious quest for a vibrant society and thriving economy, these are the solutions that bring us forward. Their product is a game-changer, and we are proud to be part of a collaboration that echoes our mutual ambition for a greener, more innovative future,” says Leptokaridis.
According to Fox, the carbon-negative concrete blocks produced in this trial were rigorously tested by ACES, a leading materials and technology firm. The tests confirmed compliance with the stringent Saudi standards (SASO), underscoring the material’s quality and durability.
