NEWS

As part of the Future Use of Energy in Louisiana’s investments, Louisiana Tech University’s Trenchless Technology Center has received an award of $125,409 to advance research on a sustainable alternative to traditional oil and gas well cements. This funding will advance the development of a one-part solid alkali-activated slag formulation, a low-carbon binder that offers an environmentally friendly solution for the energy sector.

This technology provides a sustainable alternative to Portland-based cements, which requires high-temperatures to produce substantial CO2 emissions. By utilizing industrial by-products such as ground granulated blast-furnace slag and a non-hazardous activator, the formulation can reduce carbon emissions while also maintaining high performance and durability.

“Our alkali-activated slag technology not only cuts carbon emissions by up to 80 percent but also reduces energy consumption and raw material depletion,” Dr. John Matthews, principal investigator and director of TTC, said. “At the same time, it enhances durability, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for the oil and gas sector.”

With the investment, the Trenchless Technology Center will improve the formula, test its performance in real-world oil well conditions, and work toward bringing it to market. The funding will also help secure patents, ensure it meets industry regulations, and evaluate its potential for widespread use.

“This investment is a game-changer for our research,” Matthews added. “With this support, we can transition from lab-scale research to a commercially viable product that benefits both the oil and gas industry.”

Industry partner BB&M Materials LLC will play a key role in validating the technology for real-world deployment. This partnership developed through a shared commitment to advancing sustainable alternatives in the industry.

“BB&M Materials LLC recognized the need for low-carbon well cementing materials and saw the potential in our alkali-activated slag formulation,” Matthews said. “Given their industry expertise and technical capabilities, this collaboration is a natural fit for pushing the technology toward practical deployment.”

Through this partnership, BB&M Materials LLC helps test and refine the formula to make sure it works effectively in real-world conditions. Their expertise ensures the material meets industry standards and solves important challenges such as durability, set time control and chemical resistance.

Matthews also noted the collaboration with Grambling State University, where experts in materials science and microscopic testing will analyze the microstructure of the alkali-activated slag binder.

“Beyond research, this collaboration provides valuable opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge materials science, fostering diversity in STEM fields,” he added.

In addition to oil well cementing, the technology can be used in construction and infrastructure projects, such as buildings, roads, and soil reinforcement. Its strong resistance to chemicals and extreme temperatures makes it ideal for use in marine structures, cold climates, and industrial settings.

The research team, which includes Matthews, Co-PI Dr. Shaik Hussain, and TTC researchers Reed Edwards, Niloy Paul, and Quade Wells, is now focused on optimizing the formulation, conducting pilot-scale field trials with BB&M Materials LLC, and securing regulatory approvals. By working closely with industry stakeholders, they aim to scale up production and drive adoption of this cement alternative.