UAEU researchers have secured a US patent for greener concrete. The invention, announced on 19 June 2026, replaces part of cement with waste paper ash—a by‑product of the paper industry—and cures the mix with carbon dioxide. By targeting both cement‑related emissions and the disposal of paper‑industry waste, the team hopes the approach will cut the sector’s carbon footprint and give new purpose to an otherwise discarded material.
How the patented process works
The patent outlines a two‑step solution. First, waste paper ash is blended into the concrete mix, reducing the amount of traditional cement needed. Second, after the concrete is cast, it is exposed to carbon dioxide under controlled conditions, which both strengthens the material and traps the gas inside the solid. The study examined several variables, including ash replacement levels, water‑to‑binder ratios, binder‑to‑aggregate ratios and CO₂ exposure duration, to optimise performance while maximising environmental benefits.
Results showed that mixes with around 10 per cent ash maintained compressive strength and water absorption comparable to conventional concrete while storing significant amounts of CO₂. The researchers highlighted that the moderate cement replacement achieved a promising balance between mechanical performance and sustainability, proving that waste paper ash can serve as a viable partial cement substitute.
the innovation reflects the importance of developing sustainable engineering solutions that help reduce the environmental impact of the construction sector through the innovative utilisation of industrial waste to lower emissions and enhance resource efficiency.
— Professor Hilal El-Hassan, College of Engineering, United Arab Emirates University
Potential impact on the construction sector
By integrating waste valorisation, cement reduction and CO₂ utilisation, the technology could reshape how precast units, blocks and paving elements are produced. The researchers suggest that the method is suitable for any cement‑based component manufactured under controlled curing conditions, offering a practical route to lower the carbon footprint of the building industry while supporting circular‑economy goals.
Team members include Professors Hilal El‑Hassan and Tamer El Maaddawy, both senior faculty in the College of Engineering, master’s student Eng. Karim Hassan and alumnus Dr. Jad Bawab. Their work builds on UAEU’s broader sustainability agenda, which also includes initiatives such as the Smart Mushroom House project that advances food security and engages Emirati undergraduate researchers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the concrete method patented by UAEU?
UAEU researchers patented a two‑step concrete process that substitutes waste paper ash for a portion of cement and then cures the cast concrete with carbon dioxide, reducing emissions and enhancing resource efficiency.
How does waste paper ash replace cement in the mix?
The ash, a by‑product of the paper industry, is blended into the concrete mix, allowing about 10 % of the traditional cement to be replaced while maintaining comparable compressive strength and water absorption.
What role does carbon dioxide curing play?
After casting, the concrete is exposed to CO₂ under controlled conditions; the gas reacts with the binder, strengthening the material and permanently trapping the CO₂ within the solid matrix.
What environmental benefits does the patented method provide?
By cutting cement usage, valorising paper‑industry waste, and sequestering CO₂ during curing, the method lowers the carbon footprint of concrete production and supports circular‑economy goals in the UAE construction sector.
Can the technology be applied to precast and other cement‑based products?
The researchers state the method is suitable for any cement‑based component manufactured under controlled curing conditions, including precast units, blocks, and paving elements.
