WHY USE ECOSMART CONCRETE?

Ensuring that concrete structures are sustainable both from a durability and resource use perspective is increasingly a major challenge for developers, architects, engineers and contractors. EcoSmart Concrete, when properly engineered, can overcome these hurdles while keeping construction costs the same, or even lower.

Reduced Cost

Supplementary cementing materials are generally cheaper than Portland cement, since they are industrial by-products. When properly proportioned, and especially in applications where high early-age strength is not crucial, using EcoSmart concrete can reduce construction costs. Its high strength, durability and impermeability may also lead to a reduction in replacement and repair costs. Bleed water amounts are decreased and the lower cost of placing and patching can offset any potentially higher slab finishing costs.

Strength, Workability and Durability

Although early strength is slightly less than that of a conventional design mix, higher compressive long-term strengths are generally achieved (28-day design strength). EcoSmart concrete can be less permeable, have less cracks and free lime in the hardened concrete, and be more resistant to alkali-silica reactions and sulphate attack. The result is a more durable concrete.

The increased ultimate strength and durability and decreased permeability means there is a reduction in the corrosion of steel in salt water. Increased workability also makes it easier to place concrete in piles.

Environment and Resource Conservation

The environmental footprint of concrete is becoming an increasingly important concern. Concrete is second only to water as the most consumed substance in the world. Cement production emits significant amounts of greenhouse gases (GHG); about one tonne is emitted for each tonne of cement produced. Globally, cement production accounts for 5% of total global CO2 emissions.

Using supplementary cementing materials (SCMs) – such as fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag or silica fume – not only recycles industrial waste products that would otherwise go to landfill, but reduces the carbon footprint associated with Portland cement. One tonne of SCMs replacing Portland cement in concrete reduces GHG emissions by about one tonne.

In Canada, the use of EcoSmart Concrete aids in the achievement of certain LEED® Canada Green Building Rating System credits. The Emirates Green Building Council is working to advance green building principles in the UAE and will develop appropriate green building standards and a rating system. EcoSmart Concrete harmonizes with these goals.

For further details and to find out about other benefits, please see our Benefits section.