Germany: IKN and KIMA Process Control are planning to work together on optimising energy recuperation and reducing the carbon footprint in clinker production by integrating machine learning software. The collaboration is intended to combine the expertise of KIMA Process in process automation and IKN as a process expert and equipment supplier for clinker production. The synergy should lead to more streamlined and efficient operations and highly reliable top-quality equipment.

In a statement the companies said, “We are excited about the potential of this collaboration to reshape the landscape of clinker production control and setting new benchmarks in the cement industry.”

Norway: The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy has signed a new agreement with Heidelberg Materials Sement Norge, confirming funding of up to US$14.1m for the producer’s construction of a full-scale carbon capture system at its Brevik cement plant. Under the agreement, Heidelberg Materials Sement Norge will absorb extra costs that have arisen, and retain a larger share of any return on the project. Costs rose due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and international supply chain pressures.

Nordic Daily News has reported that Heidelberg Materials Northern Europe director Giv Brantenberg said "We are in the process of completing the world's first full-scale plant for carbon capture in the cement industry, and have had great support from the Norwegian authorities throughout the project's many phases. Today's agreement reflects the good cooperation with the Norwegian government, and we look forward to completing this unique facility.”

Uganda: A joint venture of Sunbird Quarry Moroto and China-based West International Holding Cement has begun building its upcoming Moroto cement plant. New Vision News has reported that the plant will cost US$1.2bn and produce cement from locally sourced limestone. The Uganda government said that the plant will generate jobs and help to lower the local price of cement.

India: Heidelberg Materials subsidiary Zuari Cement has commissioned a 20t/hr alternative fuel (AF) production line at its 7.1Mt/yr Yerraguntla cement plant. The line includes an UNTHA XR3000C shredder. This will support continuous operations and turn waste to AF in a single step, according to Zuari Cement.

HeidelbergCement India technical director Vimal Jain said “We are passionate about driving environmental progress throughout our business, and the use of AF is one way to do that. But this waste-to-energy feedstock comes at a cost, which is why co-processing makes so much sense. When designing this plant, we needed to ensure versatility to allow for changing market conditions, and an investment in technology that makes commercial sense and is built to last.”