Advancing The Decarbonization Of Construction Im MEXICO

Promoting Sustainable Construction in Mexican Communities Through Low-Carbon Cement Technology

In August 2024, specialists from Grupo Sofonías — Professor and Dr. Engineer Yosvany Díaz, researcher and Deputy Director of CIDEM, and Engineer Sergio Moraga — carried out a consultancy in Mexico focused on the implementation of LC3 cement, a material that contributes to reducing CO₂ emissions.

This initiative was developed in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Mexico and Holcim Mexico, with the objective of building sustainable housing and reducing the environmental impact of the construction process.

Model House and Material Testing

The consultancy included the construction of a pilot house in the community of Chilapilla, Veracruz, using cement made with calcined clays. This environmentally friendly alternative can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 40% compared with conventional cement.

The house, with a floor area of 45.63 m², used approximately 12.5 m³ of concrete and 6 m³ of mortar, resulting in significant emissions savings.

During the project, more than 240 concrete samples were produced, and extensive tests were conducted in accordance with Mexican and ASTM standards to ensure the quality and durability of LC3 cement.

Training and Knowledge Exchange

In addition to the technical testing, the team led an awareness-raising and training session for masons, engineers and project collaborators.

The session highlighted the advantages of LC3 cement, including its workability, lower heat generation during setting and resistance to cracking. Despite challenging weather conditions, participants showed great interest in the characteristics and benefits of this new material.

The project also included a webinar organized by CITEC (Center for Technological Innovation in Construction), where more than 150 construction professionals discussed the decarbonization of the industry through the use of calcined clays.

Looking Ahead

The first results of the study were expected to be available in October 2024, with the aim of confirming the feasibility of LC3 cement as a sustainable alternative for construction.

The success of this initial phase opened the door to future collaboration among Grupo Sofonías, Habitat for Humanity Mexico, CIDEM and Holcim Mexico, with the shared goal of continuing to develop solutions that mitigate climate change and promote decent, sustainable housing in vulnerable communities.

This project represents an important step towards the decarbonization of construction in Latin America, in line with global objectives to reduce CO₂ emissions by 2050.