Concrete is a ubiquitous construction material, and it is essential for building and infrastructure, but like all materials, it is not without its own environmental burden. The “embodied carbon” that is generated during its production, transportation, installation and maintenance accounts for about one quarter of the global emissions from the building sector. Finding low-emission paths to concrete production is essential.
To address the problem, a range of innovations are being developed that reduce concrete’s embodied carbon footprint. Some of these solutions are already available to concrete producers. Others are still in development.
The goal is to create a built environment that offers better whole-life performance by using lower volumes of primary materials, less non-renewable energy and causing fewer disturbances to the natural environment. This approach is becoming a requirement for construction practitioners, and achieving it will require a fundamental change in thinking and new design methodologies.
One of the most promising solutions is self-healing bio-concrete, which is inspired by biology. This concrete is composed of living materials, and its cells can close cracks as they form — just as trees heal from storm damage. This self-healing capability can help bridge deterioration and extend the lifespan of roads, runways and other critical structures.
Another sustainable solution to concrete is porous concrete Central Coast Concreting Solutions, which allows water to flow through the structure and evaporate, rather than pooling. This approach can reduce the need for costly and resource-intensive drainage systems, allowing designers to incorporate sustainable solutions such as SUDS (sustainable urban drainage) into developments without compromising material performance.
Other green solutions to concrete include aeration, which increases the surface area of the concrete and encourages the formation of small air pockets, or capillaries. These tiny channels absorb and transmit water, reducing the need for expensive dewatering systems.
Using concrete with recycled aggregates can cut the amount of cement needed for the mix, which reduces carbon emissions. The use of alternative fuels in cement plants can also cut emissions, as can the use of more efficient mixers and other plant equipment.
The team at Custom Concrete Solutions is committed to promoting and implementing these innovative concrete solutions. Our certified engineers, inspectors and technicians hold accreditations from ACI, NICET and ICC, with years of experience. Our state-of-the-art concrete testing lab ensures quick and accurate results, enabling us to meet the inspection requirements of any project.
Staining is a common problem with concrete, and there are several concrete solutions to get rid of stubborn stains. Muriatic acid or trisodium phosphate, both of which are readily available at hardware stores, can be used as an effective stain remover when diluted with water and applied to the concrete. The proper safety equipment must be used, but both solutions can effectively remove the stain and leave the concrete looking brand new.
Polished concrete is a great way to add value to your home or business and extend the life of your existing concrete surfaces. The tightly packed surface is dust-free, repels staining and never needs stripping or waxing. You can choose from a matte, low-reflective finish to a high-gloss sheen. It can even be stained, stenciled or engraved to enhance the appearance and functionality of your concrete.