Former Deep Sky Executive Launches Cement Decarbonization Firm Cura

Phil De Luna, the former Chief Science and Commercial Officer at Deep Sky, has co-founded a new startup, Cura, focused on decarbonizing cement production. Alongside researchers such as **Sabrina Scott** from the **University of British Columbia** and **Erin Bobicki**, an ex-CTO of **Aurora Hydrogen**, Cura aims to tackle one of the industry’s most pressing environmental challenges.

The cleantech startup has emerged from stealth mode with a promise to develop electrochemical technology that captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from limestone using electricity, rather than relying on fossil fuels. Bobicki emphasized that Cura can potentially produce conventional cement at a lower cost, a significant shift compared to many current technologies that require a “green premium.”

Cura’s technology is designed to address the substantial CO2 emissions associated with cement production, which accounts for approximately **8% of global CO2 emissions**. Traditionally, cement is derived from limestone, which is heated to extract calcium oxide during a process that releases large volumes of CO2.

Innovative Approach to Cement Production

Cura’s method involves using an electrolyzer to split limestone into lime for cement production and pure CO2, which can be utilized for various applications. The startup claims its solution can reduce CO2 emissions from cement production by up to **85%** while maintaining cost-effectiveness. As Bobicki stated, “The only thing that’s really ready to go is point-source carbon capture and storage, and the challenge there is it tends to be very expensive.”

Currently, Cura is in the process of fundraising to establish a pilot facility capable of producing **100 tonnes** of cement per year, with plans to launch within the next **12 to 16 months** in **British Columbia** or **Alberta**. Furthermore, the company aims to initiate a **10,000-tonne** annual demonstration within three years and deploy its technology at a large-scale cement plant within five years.

Cura has already formed partnerships with an international infrastructure developer to test its cement in large-scale projects and is in discussions with cement manufacturers to pilot its technology.

Leadership and Vision for the Future

De Luna, who recently departed from Deep Sky, expressed his desire to build a company that addresses significant environmental issues. He reiterated his commitment to carbon capture technologies, stating that “Canada is the place to scale carbon removals.” He emphasized that both reducing and removing emissions are vital for achieving Canada’s net-zero targets by **2050**.

Reflecting on his journey, De Luna commented, “I’ve always viewed [Deep Sky] as a stepping stone. I knew that I wanted to be a founder, and I found the right problem, technology, and team here at Cura.” He highlighted the urgent need for solutions that can meet the growing demand for infrastructure while addressing climate change, particularly as Canada seeks to expand its energy and transportation projects.

Cura represents an ambitious step forward in the quest for sustainable cement production. As the company progresses with its innovative technology, it aims to play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact of one of the world’s most essential materials.