Eyeing opportunities in fast-track concrete construction and joint-optimized slabs on grade, Lafarge North America marked official roll outs of two additions to its line of branded, value-added mixes during the 2008 World of Concrete
Source: Lafarge North America, Herndon, Va.
Eyeing opportunities in fast-track concrete construction and joint-optimized slabs on grade, Lafarge North America marked official roll outs of two additions to its line of branded, value-added mixes during the 2008 World of Concrete. The North American debut of the Chronolia and Extensia technologies followed mid-2007 product launches through sister Lafarge Group operations in France and the U.K. Lafarge NA officials cited development of both products as examples of a Group-wide strategy to build business through innovation in ready mixed, and function as a supplier with both operational strengths and advanced technical resources.
Chronolia is formulated for delivery and handling like conventional higher-slump concrete, but once placed rapidly develops high mechanical strength. Lafarge engineers note that the workability and strength development characteristics enable Chronolia to be specified on buildings, where formwork can be stripped in as little as four hours, or pavements and heavy civil applications where quick return to service is required.
Extensia mixes are designed for low-shrinkage performance in large slabs on grade, enabling engineers to reduce or eliminate the use of steel mesh or steel fibers while achieving joint-free areas up to 60-ft. square. Lafarge NA notes that the material’s enhanced flexural strength properties provide the option of placing thinner, unreinforced slabs-yielding contractors and owners economic and environmental benefits.