CMU Embodied Carbon Series: Not All Concrete is the Same

This presentation is the first module in our CMU embodied carbon series and focuses on how concrete masonry units (CMU) differ from traditional wet-cast concrete in terms of carbon impact. Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) are made with dry-cast concrete (zero-slump) which uses less water and cement than wet-cast concrete, because of differences in manufacturing. The unique structure of dry-cast concrete enables increased rates of natural carbon dioxide sequestration at a much faster rate than most other types of concrete. We will set the stage for the concrete and carbon sequestration discussion by looking at the larger geologic carbon cycle and greenhouse gas emissions; and how it all relates to climate change. We will then look at the concrete carbon cycle and recent CMHA sequestration research and testing which demonstrates the accelerated sequestration rates substantially reducing the overall embodied carbon of dry-cast CMU construction.