The initiatives TITAN is pursuing are based on innovative technologies and concepts. These include:
- Improving our CO2 footprint:
The Carbon Initiative aims to lower our CO2 footprint by implementing advanced energy-efficiency systems and by increasing the use of alternative fuels. We are also developing and evaluating novel technologies for carbon capture and conversion, low-CO2 binders, calcined clays, and cementitious materials with improved insulation properties. We participate in global initiatives to improve the carbon footprint of our products, most prominent being the GCCA Innovandi Research Network, in addition to collaborations with established scientific institutions like the European Cement Research Academy (ECRA). Through these partnerships we research and develop new technologies, methods and materials that will help us reduce our carbon footprint throughout the value chain, in line with GCCA’s Climate Ambition towards carbon neutral concrete.
- Producing Low Carbon Cement:
Our low carbon cement initiative has resulted in the development and industrial production of a novel type of cement. The new cement exhibits equivalent performance to conventional products at lower associated emissions. Specifically, the low carbon cement is produced using less limestone and less fuels compared to conventional cements. This leads up to 30% reduction in CO2 emissions during production, which is in line with TITAN’s steadfast commitment to reducing greenhouse gases.
The design of the new product was implemented by the Research, Development & Quality (RDQ) department of the Group and the industrial production was carried out for the first time at the Drepano unit in 2018. For its realization, detailed production planning was required as the mode of operation of the furnace would change greatly (different quality targets in farina and clinker, other farina raw materials, fuel restriction, reduction of the kiln zone, etc.). During the production there was strict monitoring of the process and continuous cooperation of more than 100 executives from sectors such as Production, Quality Control, Group Engineering Technology function.
Developed by our RDQ department, this low carbon cement was successfully scaled up to industrial production in 2018. Moreover, it can be produced at any of our cement plants around the world, giving us the opportunity to develop new products for conventional and niche applications at significantly lower CO2 emissions.
- Introducing Artificial Intelligence:
Our “Digital Initiative” aims to gradually implement big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies across our entire organization. Initial efforts have shown significant improvements in automation and our decision-making processes.
- Creating special types of cement:
Our RDQ department is working on a number of cutting-edge research projects that include enhancing cement performance for conventional and niche applications, 3D-printing with specially-designed mortars and concrete, self-healing materials, and nanotechnology-inspired applications.
A prime example of our innovative expertise was the construction of the Rion-Antirion Bridge near Patras, Greece, considered one of the engineering wonders of our time, for which TITAN prepared and produced a special type of cement for the underwater load-bearing pylons, which will support the entire structure throughout its service life.