Wireframe has led a $5.4 million pre-seed investment in Cocoon, a company aiming to reduce carbon emissions in the steel and concrete industries by utilizing electric arc furnace slag in low-carbon cement production.

Information on the Target

Cocoon is an innovative company aiming to bridge the disconnect between the steel and concrete industries, which have traditionally relied on shared supply chains. As the most widely used material globally after water, concrete plays a significant role in modern infrastructure, but it also contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions. By reconnecting these industries, Cocoon addresses the pressing need for sustainable construction solutions.

The company focuses on utilizing electric arc furnace (EAF) slag—an underused byproduct from steel production—as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) to produce low-carbon cement. This practice not only enhances the durability and performance of concrete but also reduces the carbon footprint linked with traditional Portland cement, which is responsible for the majority of concrete's emissions.

Industry Overview in the Target’s Specific Country

In the United Kingdom, the construction sector is currently facing immense challenges, including a rising demand for sustainable materials amidst stringent decarbonization goals. The UK's commitment to reducing carbon emissions has prompted a reevaluation of construction