Customer interview story with - CTEC Holcim on achieving accreditation for the Hidex Solid Biocrbon Method
CTEC Holcim Cement Technical Center Vienna GmbH, part of the global Holcim Group, has strengthened its role in supporting sustainable cement production by implementing the Hidex ULLA and Oxidizer systems for biogenic carbon analysis in solid recovered fuels (SRF). The centre recently achieved third-party accreditation for the Hidex Solid Biocarbon Method, marking an important step in advancing reliable analytical capabilities for biomass analysis contributing to CO₂ reduction efforts within the cement industry. In an interview with Managing Director Gerold Schnedl and Deputy Lab Manager Stefan Baumann, we spoke about their onboarding experience of using Hidex equipment, how their lab received accreditation in record time, and how they utilise the Hidex Solid Biocarbon method for SRF.
Located in Mannersdorf, Austria, CTEC Holcim provides comprehensive analytical support for Holcim’s cement operations across Europe. Their work includes analysis of alternative fuels and raw materials, product development, and environmental testing, aimed at improving performance and supporting low-carbon production practices.
What are the main activities of CTEC Holcim?
The laboratory plays a central role in supporting Holcim’s Austrian cement plants in Mannersdorf and Retznei, as well as serving Holcim plants worldwide. Their work covers a wide range of analyses, including fuel characterization, biomass burnability and grindability testing, and environmental analysis.
A growing focus area is the analysis of secondary and alternative fuels, which help replace fossil-based materials, and reduce clinker content - the main source of CO₂ emissions in cement production, while maintaining durability and long-term product performance.
Why is biomass analysis important for the cement industry?
One of the key goals for the European cement sector is to reduce the CO₂ footprint associated with production. Since biomass is considered CO₂-neutral under emissions regulations, determining the biogenic fraction of fuels is crucial for accurate emissions reporting and participation in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).
By implementing analysis using the Hidex method, Holcim CTEC can precisely quantify the proportion of biogenic carbon in SRF samples, data that directly supports cement plant’s sustainability goals and regulatory compliance requirements.
Why did CTEC Holcim choose the Hidex Solid Biocarbon Method?
Before adopting the Hidex method, CTEC Holcim used the Selective Dissolution Method, which relied on strong chemicals and required extensive manual handling. The laboratory sought a faster, safer, and higher-capacity solution which did not involve exposure to strong chemicals, to meet growing analytical demands.
With the Hidex ULLA and Oxidizer, the team now performs liquid scintillation counting (LSC)-based biomass measurements that are more automated, environmentally friendly, and efficient. The systems were installed in December 2024, with accreditation audits completed in February 2025, and the accreditation certificate obtained in May 2025.
What is the significance of the accreditation?
Achieving accreditation for the Hidex Solid Biocarbon Method ensures that test results from CTEC Holcim’s laboratory are officially recognized and trusted by customers, auditors, and government authorities. Accredited reports are essential for CO₂ emissions verification under national and EU-level schemes.
Following method accreditation against standards (standards EN 15440, EN ISO 21644 and EN 16640), CTEC Holcim has already expanded its analysis capacity and hired a new laboratory technician to meet the rising demand for biomass testing across multiple Holcim sites.
How has the Hidex method improved daily operations?
The adoption of the Hidex Solid Biocarbon Method has made laboratory operations safer and more streamlined, eliminating the need for strong acids and allowing faster throughput. The team can now process more samples with greater speed and precision.
The improved automation and sample pipeline management have also freed up staff time for performance improvement projects and raw material innovation, contributing to Holcim’s broader sustainability goals.
Advancing Low-Carbon Cement Production with Reliable Biomass Analysis
“One of the main goals for the cement industry is to reduce the CO₂ footprint in Europe. The Hidex Solid Biocarbon Method allows us to provide reliable and accredited biogenic carbon results for our customers, which are essential for verified CO₂ calculations. With accreditation now in place, we can increase our testing capacity and further support Holcim’s transition toward low-carbon and circular building materials.”
— Gerold Schnedl, Managing Director at CTEC Holcim Cement Technical Center Vienna GmbH
With the Hidex ULLA and Oxidizer now accredited for biogenic carbon determination, CTEC Holcim stands at the forefront of analytical excellence in the cement industry combining technical precision with a strong commitment to sustainability.
