Can concrete be sustainable? The answer is yes! Scientific research and new technologies have led to the emergence of eco-friendly concrete, which not only ensures lower environmental impact but also good resistance to static and dynamic loads. The future of construction lies in this solution, which is also used by Elle&P to lay durable industrial flooring that is versatile and adaptable to all types of business: from large-scale retail to pharmaceuticals, and mechanical engineering and manufacturing.
But what exactly is it?
Green concrete is made using blended cements, recycled aggregates and by-products from industrial processes. Reuse, however, is not the only reason for sustainability: in addition to a different impact on non-renewable resource and energy consumption, the green concrete production process results in significantly lower CO2 emissions.
The recipe of this compound is what makes the difference, in terms of the environment and innovation. One of the elements used is microsilica, an ultra-fine powder derived from the production of silicon; its use enhances the durability of the flooring, improving the mechanical properties needed to counteract the stresses caused by heavy vehicle traffic. Flooring containing microsilica is particularly suitable for the chemical industry because it makes the concrete is less permeable to liquids and corrosive substances.
Fly ash is also a possible component that can replace part of the binder in the mixture. It becomes strong and durable when combined with lime and water, giving concrete important pozzolanic properties. The same applies to by-products from the industrial steel production process: granular materials that can be used in the study of the mixture, giving it interesting mechanical properties such as, for example, impact resistance.
Another essential factor in the sustainable transition of concrete is replacing natural aggregates with products from recycling processes. Recycling aggregate from building demolition, excavated material and even recovering waste from the concrete production process, lends itself effectively to the creation of modern, state-of-the-art flooring.
Among the various elements that contribute to the formulation of a sustainable concrete, one to consider is synthetic macro-fibres, which can replace or reduce the application of traditional electro-welded mesh (by obtaining concretes that are very strong), thus ensuring a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
The reasons why synthetic fibres are a sustainable technology are easily seen both in the production cycle, which is classified as zero waste, and during product application, where it helps eliminate the transport and application steps associated with traditional metal reinforcements.
Do you want a sustainable floor? Contact us for a quotation and request an inspection.
