Sources: Solidia Technologies, Piscataway, N.J.; CP staff
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office recognizes the unique structure of Solidia Concrete, designed and produced with conventional aggregates and processes, but bearing an alternative to hydraulic binders that reacts with carbon dioxide versus water. U.S. Patent No. 9,868,667, “Bonding Element, Bonding Matrix and Composite Material Having the Bonding Element and Method of Manufacturing Thereof,” covers the composition of matter of the distinctive, non-hydraulic, CO2-cured concrete available as Solidia Concrete.
“The hydrate bonds in conventional concrete can compromise that material’s strength and durability,” explains Solidia Chief Technology Officer Nicholas DeCristofaro, Ph.D. “With CO2-cured concrete, bonding elements based on silica and calcium carbonate create a wide range of attractive properties, including mechanical strength, [and] resistance to freeze-thaw deterioration [or] sulfate attack.”
Solidia’s patented processes start with an energy-saving, sustainable cement, specification of which equates to a carbon footprint reduction up to 70 percent when measured against conventional portland cement concrete. Using the same raw materials and existing plant equipment, CO2-cured Solidia products and structures are higher performing, cost less to fabricate, and cure in less than 24 hours, company engineers contend.
Currently in commercialization for large- and small-scale applications, the initial technology focus at Solidia’s northern New Jersey headquarters was unreinforced precast and unit masonry. Engineers are now developing commercial processes for reinforced products, including aerated concrete, railroad ties, architectural panels and hollow core plank.
Alongside LafargeHolcim Ltd. and BASF, Solidia investors include Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Bright Capital, BP, Total Energy Ventures, Air Liquide, and Oil & Gas Climate Initiative Climate Investments. Research & development collaborators have included LafargeHolcim, Air Liquide, CDS Group, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Highway Administration, DOE National Energy Technology Laboratory, Rutgers University, Purdue University, Ohio University, and University of South Florida.