New resource-efficient cement for the production of CO₂-optimized concrete

Dyckerhoff is the first cement manufacturer in Germany to receive general building authority approval (abZ) for the use of CEM VI (S-LL) cement in accordance with DIN EN 197-5. The German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt) granted approval for the Dyckerhoff cement plant in Lengerich (see picture above) on October 20, 2025, for almost all exposure classes, with the exception of classes XF2 to XF4.

CEM VI cement is a versatile cement for the production of ready-mixed concrete. It combines a reduced carbon footprint (GWP), comparable to that of CEM III/B cements commonly available on the market today, with the efficient use of locally available raw materials. In addition to the main components of Portland cement clinker and granulated blast furnace slag, limestone is used as another main component – a resource that is available in sufficient quantities. In terms of its composition, CEM VI is similar to the already established CEM II/C-M (S-LL) cements, but with a lower carbon footprint (GWP).

Composition CEM VI (S-LL) according to EN 197-5:

The combination of the three well-balanced main cement components gives the resultant concrete good processing properties with very good sedimentation stability and moderate strength development. Other key properties of the cement include low hydration heat and low effective alkali content.

The cement can be used in more than 60% of all concrete types produced in ready-mixed concrete plants. It is also suitable for the production of CO₂-reduced concretes according to the CSC system up to CO₂ level 3. This is particularly relevant when no fillers, such as fly ash, are available. The low hydration heat of the cement has a particularly positive effect in massive components.

CEM VI cements are a cornerstone for achieving the climate targets of the cement industry. In the VDZ roadmap, it was originally planned to introduce these cements from 2030 onwards. The launch of CEM VI before this date will help to reduce CO₂ emissions from concrete construction more quickly.

Wilhelm Dyckerhoff Institut in Wiesbaden: Extensive test series with the new cement were carried out here in preparation for approval.