Concrete made from waste that conserves natural resources
The NEbeton project is developing low-emission cement-free concrete.
Introducing Cementum, the creator of another innovative project showing that even one of the most widely used construction materials can undergo a fundamental transformation. Concrete is the foundation of modern construction, but at the same time it is also one of the materials with a significant environmental footprint. Cementum is exploring ways to substantially reduce that footprint while preserving the properties we expect from concrete.
The project is led by materials engineer Jan Čermák, who focuses on maximizing the use of secondary and recycled materials in construction. For example, recycled construction debris can replace a significant proportion of natural gravel and sand in concrete mixes. Cementum is therefore addressing both the depletion of natural resources and the fact that a large share of construction waste still ends up without being reused.
NEbeton. A low-emission, cement-free alternative to concrete
Nebeton is based on a unique geopolymer. It uses secondary and recycled raw materials, such as dust generated during brick grinding, ground waste glass, and other materials that would otherwise often end up as waste. As a result, the final material can have up to 84% lower CO₂ emissions than conventional concrete of the same strength class. In addition, it conserves natural resources—reducing their consumption by up to two metric tons per cubic meter of material—and requires minimal water usage.
However, a lower carbon footprint does not mean compromising on performance. NEbeton is being developed to match conventional concrete in terms of strength, frost resistance, and durability under harsh conditions, so it can be used in real-world construction projects.
From Conception to Practical Use
Thanks to Buřinka’s support and its unique properties, Cementum is rapidly moving from an idea and laboratory development toward practical validation and patent protection in the Czech Republic. Various formulations, technical properties, and practical applications are being tested. The goal is not to create an interesting experiment, but a material that can help transform the way we build in the Czech Republic.
Cementum is also naturally building on the Inovace od Buřinky innovation platform, which has been supporting groundbreaking solutions in construction and housing since 2019. Following projects such as Prvok and Samorost, it is demonstrating another way to better manage waste, conserve natural resources, and reduce emissions in the construction industry. Cementum’s zero-emission concrete is also a showcase project for a grant call.