This Green Series installment focuses on eco-friendly concrete alternatives for residential and ICI construction.
TIMBERCRETE
Timbercrete, an alternative concrete material, combines sawmill waste, cement, sand, binders, and a non-toxic deflocculating additive. Subsequently, sun, wind, and renewable resources power its creation into a building block.
The sawdust repurposes a waste product and replaces some of the energy-intensive components of traditional concrete. Timbercrete can be formed into traditional shapes such as blocks, bricks, and pavers.
ASHCRETE
Ashcrete, an alternative to concrete, relies on the use of fly ash. Manufacturers make this alternative from borate, bottom ash, and a chemical from the chlorine family. They also comprise it of over 90% recycled materials.
FERROCK
Ferrock, an eco-friendly concrete option, is an iron-rich compound that undergoes a chemical reaction, resulting in a hard, strong solid form similar to concrete. Recycled materials comprise approximately 95% of Ferrock. Builders can use this alternative in gardens, patios, and commercial and residential buildings.
MYCELIUM
Mycelium, a natural fungi material, possesses industrial-level strength. The fragile, root-like fibers of fungus that live underground constitute the mycelium of fungus. This material is 100% organic, compostable, and biodegradable. Drying renders it incredibly durable and resistant to water, mold, and fire.
This concrete alternative grows around a composite of other natural materials, like ground up straw, in molds or forms. It is then air-dried to create lightweight and strong bricks or other shapes.
RECYCLED PLASTIC
Builders use recycled plastics in construction as a strategic way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while unclogging plastic-filled landfills. Recyclers easily recycle plastic waste, which replaces 20% of aggregates in concrete.
Only 9% of the total plastic produced can be recycled and therefore newer technologies suggest widespread use of non-recyclable plastic in various facades of construction.
The construction industry is a leader in technological implementation. Furthermore, with the continued rise in technologies, the industry can slowly begin to shift towards using more eco-friendly substitutes for concrete as a way to fight climate change and heal the planet. Be sure to check out the latest article by Construct Connect to learn how Canadian Cement Producers and the Canadian Government are striving to reduce CO2 emissions from cement production.
