The numbers behind carbon in concrete
These figures are indicative estimates that vary by scope and year.
Where carbon fits in concrete
Carbon nanotubes, primarily MWCNTs, act as nanoscale reinforcement within the cement matrix, spanning microcracks and improving both compressive and flexural strength. Compressive-strength improvements of 10 to 30 percent are reported at MWCNT loadings of 0.05 to 0.5 percent by weight, alongside reduced permeability.
Graphene nanoplatelets added at very low dosages, typically 0.01 to 0.05 percent of cement, nucleate hydration products to produce a denser, less porous microstructure, with reported flexural-strength gains of 15 to 40 percent in lab studies. Woven carbon-fibre textiles in thin-slab concrete provide flexural reinforcement without steel corrosion and enable 40 to 70 percent thickness reduction. The carbon textile-reinforced concrete market reached $1.6B in 2025 at a 9.2 percent CAGR.
Biochar is being evaluated as a supplementary cementitious material that replaces a fraction of clinker while contributing pozzolanic activity, with commercial trials ongoing through 2024 and 2025. ACC tracks the producers, the science and the market behind concrete carbons so members can see where performance is proven and where adoption is still early.
Key carbons used in concrete
Drawn from materials ACC has linked to concrete coverage and producers. Each links to its full material profile.
