Articles | Volume 23, issue 1
https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-23-399-2026
https://doi.org/10.5194/bg-23-399-2026
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14 Jan 2026
Research article | Highlight paper |  | 14 Jan 2026

The carbon dioxide removal potential of cement and lime kiln dust via ocean alkalinity enhancement

Gunter Flipkens, Greet Lembregts, and Filip J.R. Meysman

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This study uses carefully designed laboratory experiments to explore the potential of cement and lime kiln dust as feedstocks for ocean alkalinity enhancement, providing new insights into their capacity to enhance CO₂ uptake and counteract ocean acidification. By quantifying dissolution kinetics, alkalinity release, and potential carbon dioxide removal, the authors highlight both the promise of these widely available industrial by-products and the limitations associated with scalability and environmental impacts. Importantly, the work offers a balanced assessment of the benefits and risks of kiln dust deployment, making it highly relevant to the scientific community and to broader discussions on viable and responsible carbon dioxide removal strategies.
Short summary
Cement and lime kiln dust, industrial by-products, could help remove CO2 from the atmosphere by increasing surface ocean alkalinity. Lab experiments showed that a fraction dissolves rapidly in seawater, releasing substantial alkalinity. Most of the residual fraction may dissolve in marine sediments to drive further carbon storage. Both materials could thus aid in global CO2 removal, but careful application strategies are required to avoid harm to marine ecosystems.
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