Making pattern stamped concrete more eco-friendly
In the current landscape, governments across the world are committing to reducing CO2 emissions and promoting a more ‘green-minded’ world. Therefore, it is undoubtedly refreshing to observe the significant quantity of research being invested in developing alternative cement products. We welcome these possible changes as we’re always looking to make our pattern stamped concrete service more eco-friendly.
Cement's ongoing role in construction
As a construction material that has been in use since Roman times, cement is an incredibly sturdy and supportive product that we interact with daily. From concrete offices and car parks in metropolitan areas to pattern imprinted concrete driveways in Huddersfield and outdoor patio areas in residential neighbourhoods, cement is ubiquitous. It appears in tarmac, road bridges, airport runways, reservoirs, underground stations, skyscrapers, and more.
Environmental concerns surrounding cement production
However, despite its widespread use and undeniable benefits, cement has a deleterious impact on the environment. It adds more CO2 to the atmosphere than the global aviation industry and necessitates massive amounts of fossil fuels to produce. Furthermore, it fails to meet the objectives of the green agenda. This is by experiencing an increase in production every year, thanks to its use in concrete production.
Promising green alternatives
Fortunately, alternative and environmentally friendly solutions are emerging. This is a result of the relentless efforts of talented and passionate young scientists who are committed to promoting a green agenda. Also to the growing support of industry and commerce, who are eager to patent and utilise emerging green technologies.
Innovative solutions in concrete production
Light foam-based concretes are one of the innovative solutions. They provide an alternative to traditional cement, alongside CeramiCrete, which is twice as strong as conventional concrete. Therefore it’s only required in half the quantity. However, the stumbling block with these new technologies is that they cost more. So this gets passed onto the pattern stamped concrete installers in Huddersfield like us and then onto the customers.
Exploring oil by-products as cement alternatives
The smartest and least expensive solution comes from the oil industry. Shell is currently investigating thermoplastic binders as potential cement alternatives. These are produced from oil by-products and have the potential to replace up to 90% of traditional concrete. This product can save 3.5 tons of CO2 by using a ton of the new carbon concrete. So this makes significant strides in reducing the environmental impact of cement production.
Transitioning towards a greener future
It is truly fascinating to see how a crude oil by-product can be transformed into a green product. Also how the concrete industry is finally seeking viable alternatives for environmentally-friendly future products. However, these new products can’t just be approved and embraced in some countries. First, they must undergo commercial large-scale applications to demonstrate their benefits.
Conclusion
The future of the cement industry which will affect pattern stamped concrete is beginning to look more promising and greener. This is as innovative and environmentally friendly technologies and solutions continue to be developed and adopted.