Energy Transition Solutions

Energy Transition Solutions


Low Carbon Cement is Sublime | Dr. Leah Ellis of Sublime Systems | Ep 132

January 31, 2024

In this episode, Joe Batir talks with Dr. Leah Ellis, CEO and co-founder of Sublime Systems. She discusses the environmental impact of cement production and the need for decarbonization. She explains the process of cement and concrete production and the challenges of carbon capture and storage (CCS). Dr. Ellis introduces Sublime Systems’ innovative process that replaces traditional cement production with a fossil fuel-free, electrochemical method. She highlights the potential for reusing existing concrete and the importance of addressing additional inputs and reducing emissions. Dr. Ellis also discusses the first commercial-scale manufacturing facility and the path to achieving net zero and beyond.



Leah’s book recommendation: Destiny Disrupted by Tamim Ansary



Takeaways



Cement production is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, and decarbonizing the industry is crucial for achieving net zero.



Sublime Systems has developed an electrochemical process that replaces traditional cement production, reducing emissions and avoiding the use of fossil fuels.



The reuse of existing concrete and the reduction of additional inputs are important steps in minimizing the environmental impact of cement production.



Scaling up the production of Sublime Systems’ cement technology is essential for achieving significant emissions reductions in the industry.



Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:05 Background and Introduction to Sublime Systems
04:15 Understanding Cement and Concrete
06:21 The Environmental Impact of Cement Production
07:35 Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Challenges
19:03 The Sublime Systems Process
22:39 Reuse of Existing Concrete
25:57 Addressing Additional Inputs and Reducing Emissions
28:19 The First Commercial Scale Manufacturing Facility
32:50 Production Capacity and Scaling Up
36:09 Path to Net Zero and Beyond
41:22 Favorite Book Recommendation
43:36 Getting to Net Zero and Beyond
44:57 The Story Behind the Bow Tie
48:51 Favorite Bow Tie
49:11 Closing Remarks



This episode is sponsored by Ranch Office—Texas style co-working in Houston. Life is better at the Ranch.



Brought to you on OGGN, the largest and most listened-to podcast network for the oil and energy industry.



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