Researchers claim nitrogen capture method could curb toxic oxide release from concrete

Researchers have found that capturing nitrogen in concrete production could significantly reduce global levels of potentially harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) created by the construction industry.

The international group behind the research reported that its estimated 131-384 Mt reduction of NOx releases through concrete nitrogenation could add up to 75-260 years potentially lost to premature death and reduced quality of life.  

NOx can contribute to acid rain, ozone layer depletion and pose significant health threats particularly respiratory disease.

In its findings, published in Nature Cities, the group noted that commercialising nitrogenation was likely to provide better economic and environmental prospects than similar processes relating to carbon dioxide.

Co-author Dr Yuli Shan, from the University of Birmingham, said: “Cities around the world, particularly those in the global south, are experiencing extensive urban renewal, expansion, and modernisation – all inevitably creating atmospheric pollution.

“Between 1970 and 2018, global NOx emissions nearly doubled from 70 Mt to 120 Mt. Addressing and managing these emissions is crucial for enhancing urban health, fostering sustainable industrial growth, and ensuring environmental well-being.”

The researchers recommended setting up an emissions trading system like the one already created for carbon - creating a more precise and widely accepted quantification of the advantages associated with NOx sequestration.

Although significant environmental and economic benefits are possible, practical application of the processes faces challenges related to transporting large volumes of materials and gases.