Salty brine is being used to make cement
The process involves using the residual salt to make a type of calcium carbonate, which is then combined with sand to create a sustainable cement.
This process, still in its early stages of development has the potential to create new markets for desalination by-products and reduce the carbon footprint associated with the construction industry. The research is being led by Assistant Professor Mohammad Heidari of Civil and Urban Engineering. "The idea is that we take this waste product and use it to create a sustainable product which can help reduce greenhouse gases," he said. The process we're developing could create a market for desalination by-products and reduce the carbon footprint in the construction industry. "We are in the early stages, but are optimistic that this will change the game for the construction industry."