Yusuf Yudhoyuno, a 2023 student from the Department of Chemical Engineering (DTK), Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia (FTUI), achieved first place in the Tripatra Sustainable Engineering Paper Competition 2024. This competition was organized by PT Tripatra Engineers and Constructors, a leading company that provides sustainable engineering solutions in Indonesia.
This three-month-long competition carried the theme “Building the Future: Solutions for a Sustainable World” and featured three main sub-themes: Sustainable Materials in Engineering and Construction Practices, Circular Economy Opportunities in Construction, and Decarbonization Solutions in Construction. Yusuf chose the Sustainable Materials in Engineering and Construction Practices sub-theme.
The competition’s selection process consisted of four stages: abstract submission, full paper and poster submission, final presentation, and winner announcement. Out of more than 100 registered participants, 50 abstracts were selected to advance to the second stage, where participants were required to develop their abstracts into full papers. The top 10 finalists then presented their work virtually via Microsoft Teams Meeting on October 24, 2024. Finally, on November 8, 2024, the winners were announced, with Yusuf securing the top position.
In his scientific paper titled, “Simultaneous Production Process of Cement and Hydrogen Based on Calcium Carbide Waste as a Low-Emission Alternative in the Construction Industry”, Yusuf proposed an innovative solution to reduce carbon emissions in the construction sector.
The project utilizes calcium carbide residue (CCR), which is typically considered hazardous waste, to produce calcium oxide (CaO) and hydrogen simultaneously. By using the Ca(OH)₂ content in CCR, Yusuf proposed a method that reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 72% compared to conventional cement production processes and generates over 2,000 tons of hydrogen per year. This project holds great potential to support carbon emission reduction efforts in the construction sector, with an estimated Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 30% and a projected payback period of approximately four years.
Yusuf’s solution not only contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also opens up opportunities for the development of circular economy-based technology in Indonesia. The research findings are expected to serve as the foundation for implementing a pilot project to utilize CCR for CaO and hydrogen production, offering an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution.
The Dean of FTUI, Prof. Kemas Ridwan Kurniawan, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., expressed his appreciation for Yusuf’s achievement, “Yusuf’s accomplishment in the Tripatra Sustainable Engineering Paper Competition 2024 demonstrates that FTUI students possess the capacity and creativity to address global sustainability challenges. The innovation proposed by Yusuf, namely using calcium carbide waste as a low-emission solution in the construction sector, is clear evidence that science and technology can be advanced to support the transition toward a greener future. At FTUI, we continuously encourage our students to be bold in innovation, develop applied research, and create solutions that benefit society,” said Prof. Kemas.
As the first-place winner, Yusuf was awarded an educational scholarship and the opportunity to intern at PT Tripatra Engineers and Constructors. This award not only recognizes Yusuf’s innovative work but also provides a platform to develop his career in the sustainable engineering industry.
“I hope this solution can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and creating a more environmentally friendly construction sector in Indonesia. I also dedicate this achievement to inspiring younger generations to innovate for a better future,” said Yusuf.
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Public Communication Office
Faculty of Engineering Universitas Indonesia
