C-Capture in partnership with Heidelberg Materials has introduced a new carbon capture trial at the latter’s plant in Ketton, UK. 

This trial is part of C-Capture’s 'XLR8 CCS - Accelerating the Deployment of a Low-Cost Carbon Capture Solution for Hard-to-Abate Industries' project. 

As part of the project, a total of six carbon capture trials will be conducted. It is being carried out by working with partners across the UK. 

The latest trial at Ketton plant uses C-Capture's technology for industrial decarbonisation. 

A carbon capture solvent compatibility unit (CCSCU), developed in collaboration with project partner Wood, is now operational at the site. 

The unit aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of C-Capture’s carbon capture technology in eliminating carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the flue gas emissions generated during cement production. 

Heidelberg Materials UK CEO Simon Willis said: “Carbon capture is a critical part of our strategy to decarbonise cement production and essential if we are to reach net zero and help our customers achieve their own decarbonisation goals. 

“Our venture with C-Capture is another example of our commitment to developing new technologies and, if successful, has the potential to be rolled out at other sites across the Heidelberg Materials Group.” 

CCSCUs are also being installed at various partner sites, including Energy Works Hull, Glass Futures, and Pilkington UK, a member of the NSG Group. 

The project showcases the adaptability of this technology within three industries: energy from waste, cement, and glass manufacturing. 

The success of these trials is anticipated to position C-Capture and its partners to implement commercial-scale carbon capture facilities by 2030, potentially capturing millions of tonnes of CO₂ annually.  

The XLR8 CCS project is said to have already made strides in the glass manufacturing industry, with an ongoing trial at Pilkington UK's site in St Helens. 

C-Capture CEO Tom White said: “Decarbonising industry is one of the most pressing global issues. C-Capture’s XLR8 CCS project is a critical step in the race to net zero as we work with our innovative technology and leading industry partners to demonstrate that an affordable carbon capture solution is a reality - even for industries that are difficult to decarbonise.” 

XLR8 CCS is supported by a £1.7m ($2.3m) grant from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero's Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, part of a larger £20m CCUS Innovation 2.0 programme.  

This funding, along with additional private-sector contributions, brings the total project investment to £2.7m.