LowEmissionAsphalt-136pg-WhitePaper-May2023

P a g e | 51 • Improved specifications focusing on desired material properties. • Improved mix development for local materials. • Improved mix constructability for contractors. • Improved mix optimization. So, the focus of the concrete industry’s PEM efforts is to achieve longer-term durability, which aligns with the life cycle approach to carbon reductions, and this could benefit cradle-to-grave emissions calculations in an EPD. One must understand, however, PEM is a strategy and not a specific mix or process . PEM is a theoretical optimization strategy on a concrete project design itself. For example, lower carbon aggregate gradation can be achieved utilizing locally sourced materials (reduced hauling) while optimizing the cement content (PLCs) and balancing the use of SCMs. In combination, the strategy theoretically can have an impact on reducing embodied carbon at the concrete materials production stage (Figure 26) . But there isn’t much field data yet to observe. Figures 26 Theoretical PCC Design Optimization Using PLCs, SCMs and PEM Source: CEMEX