Carbon Innovation Revolutionizes Cement Production for a Greener Future
In an inspiring leap for climate technology, Melbourne-based startup Kapture has developed revolutionary carbon capture technology capable of transforming harmful emissions into a critical component of concrete production. This groundbreaking achievement offers a sustainable solution for the cement industry, one of the most significant contributors to global carbon dioxide emissions.
How Kapture is Redefining Carbon Capture and Concrete
The heart of Kapture’s innovation lies in its ability to retrofit diesel generator exhaust systems with carbon capture technology. By capturing carbon dioxide directly at the emission source, Kapture prevents it from escaping into the atmosphere. This sequestered carbon is then embedded in concrete, replacing traditional ingredients like Portland cement, significantly contributing to global greenhouse gas emissions.
“Diesel generators are a strategic starting point due to their prevalence and emissions intensity,” explains Kapture co-founder and CEO Raj Bagri. “Our technology integrates seamlessly into existing systems without disrupting operations while creating a sustainable product for concrete manufacturing.”
Tackling the Cement Industry’s Emissions
Cement production accounts for a staggering 8% of global CO2 emissions, making it the third-largest emitter after China and the United States. In Australia alone, cement production emitted 4.7 Mt of CO2 in 2020–2021, with a significant portion coming from the chemical processes used to produce Portland cement.
Kapture’s technology addresses these challenges on two fronts. It captures carbon from generators and offsets up to 1.2 tons of CO2 emissions during the cement manufacturing process for every ton of solvent used.
“This isn’t just carbon capture; it’s a scalable, affordable solution to one of the world’s most pressing climate challenges,” says Bagri.
No Green Premium
One of Kapture’s standout features is its cost-effectiveness. Bagri emphasizes that the byproduct of their captured emissions directly replaces Portland cement in concrete manufacturing with no additional green premium. Concrete companies can adopt the technology without financial penalties while reducing their environmental impact.
“It’s a no-brainer for concrete companies,” Bagri asserts. “Our product integrates seamlessly into their processes and delivers both environmental and economic value.”
Partnerships and Real-world Applications
Strategic partnerships, including collaborating with Western Australian concrete supplier PERMAcast, bolster Kapture’s journey toward commercial success. This partnership enabled the startup to pilot its technology in a market wealthy with diesel generators due to mining and agricultural activities.
PERMAcast also invested in Kapture, recognizing the potential of its innovative solution. “We were both looking for low-carbon solutions, and the timing couldn’t have been better,” shares Bagri.
A trial with an Australian electricity utility is set for early 2025, marking another milestone in Kapture’s journey toward commercialization.
The Vision Behind Kapture
Bagri’s journey as a climate tech entrepreneur is a testament to resilience and vision. A business graduate and former banker, she transitioned to climate tech during the COVID-19 pandemic. Motivated by the global urgency of addressing climate change, Bagri spent 18 months deeply researching carbon capture technologies, driven by a passion for developing a scalable, energy-efficient solution.
“I realized engineers often lack the entrepreneurial drive to bring technology to market,” says Bagri. “That’s where I saw my opportunity—to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization.”
Her determination led her to co-found Kapture in 2022. Later, she was joined by CTO Jacob Youngert, whose engineering expertise complemented her business acumen.
Empowering Sustainability Through Innovation
Kapture’s latest prototype, deployed in Michigan, USA, demonstrates remarkable efficiency. It consumes just 5% of the energy required by competing technologies, many of which demand up to 60%.
This energy-saving advantage, combined with Kapture’s solution’s scalability, positions the startup as a leader in the carbon capture industry. The technology’s versatility extends beyond cement, with future applications in shipping and other high-emission sectors.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Change
As a South Asian woman and mother of two, Bagri defies conventional stereotypes of startup founders. Her journey is marked by challenges, including skepticism due to her non-technical background. Yet, she sees her outsider perspective as a strength, enabling her to approach problems differently and innovate effectively.
“I was born to do this,” Bagri declares. “My diverse experiences have been my superpower. They’ve allowed me to think differently about technology, commercialization, and building a sustainable future.”
A Future of Carbon Innovation
Kapture’s mission goes beyond reducing emissions; it aims to inspire change on a global scale. “We want to show the world that innovation and sustainability coexist,” says Bagri. “Our technology isn’t just about solving a problem; it’s about creating a movement.”
With plans to commercialize in 2025 and expand into new industries, Kapture is poised to transform the cement industry and the broader fight against climate change.
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