Valorisation of Sargassum natans in the Cement Industry both as an Alternative Fuel and a Cementitious Additive
by Ms Alana Ramnarine

Recurring influxes of pelagic Sargassum natans along Caribbean coastlines have generated significant environmental, economic and public health challenges. Simultaneously, the cement industry remains one of the largest contributors to anthropogenic CO2 emissions due to its high thermal energy demand using fossil fuels and clinker production processes.

This study serves to investigate how these problems can be a solution to each other by investigating the valorisation of Sargassum natans within the cement industry through two integrated pathways: (i) its use as an alternative fuel in cement kilns and (ii) its conversion to ash for partial substitution as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). This presentation will focus on the literature and methods that would support these research goals.

Wednesday 29 April, 2026 at 2:30 p.m.

ZOOM | CLICK HERE to register

Ms Alana Ramnarine is currently pursuing a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Process Engineering at The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). She currently holds a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree (B.A.Sc.) in Process Engineering, a National Engineering Technicians Diploma (NETD) and a Certificate in Process Operations, all from UTT.

Alana started her career as a Plant Operator 1 at ANSA McAL Chemicals Limited where she gained experience in plant monitoring, troubleshooting and optimisation, for 2 years. After this, she worked at YARA Trinidad Limited where she gained hands on experience in plant operation for 2 years as a Process Plant Operator at Tringen 1. She also possesses auxiliary skills in sales and management through work experience and volunteerism.

Alana's current research specialises in sustainable materials and energy recovery within the cement industry with emphasis on the valorisation of Sargassum natans as both an alternative fuel and a supplementary cementitious material (SCM).