Analysis of Alternative Fuels for Carbon Reduction in the Cement Industry

The cement industry is an energy-intensive sector with significant CO 2 emissions owing to the high-temperature calcination processes and fuel combustion involved in clinker production.As the realization of carbon neutrality accelerates, the introduction of fuels to replace existing fossil fuels is being deliberated for the cement sector.In the domestic cement industry, various waste-derived alternative fuels, such as waste synthetic resins, waste tires, and waste wood, are utilized.This can contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promote resource recycling.As of 2021, the domestic cement industry has used approximately 2.245 million tons of the alternative fuels, accounting for 35 % of the total fuel consumption in the cement industry.Alternative fuels emit lower CO 2 than fossil fuels, such as bituminous coal.However, the domestic utilization rate of alternative fuels is low compared to that of major European countries.Accordingly, a multifaceted approach, includes institutional improvement, quality control, and supply and demand stabilization is required.This study investigated the current status of alternative fuel use in the domestic cement industry, overseas applications, and the characteristics of each fuel.Additionally, it explored ways to utilize carbon-free fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia to realize carbon neutrality in the cement industry in the future.