C-Crete Technologies LLC, San Leandro, Calif. developer of a concrete binder processed from non-carbonate feedstocks, was recently awarded grants totaling $10.4 million from the California Energy Commission and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to increase production capacity. The funding shows confidence in the firm’s portland cement-free concrete products, dubbed C-Cretes, and recognition that such novel materials align with both Golden State and DOE missions to foster innovation in sustainable construction practice.
C-Crete formulates a concrete binder from granite, zeolite or basalt raw feeds, each representing a lower carbon dioxide emissions factor when measured against limestone, the primary material for portland cement clinker. Above all, granite is a non-carbonate rock primarily comprising silicon, aluminum and calcium—three of the Earth’s most abundant elements and more plentiful than limestone. C-Crete mixes develop compressive strength exceeding 5,000 psi; exhibit pumpability, workability, setting time and surface finish akin to conventional concrete; and, absorb ambient carbon dioxide when curing.
“Scaling up our manufacturing process moves us closer to converting locally available materials into cementitious binders for use in homes, schools, hospitals and other infrastructure,” says C-Crete Founder and President Rouzbeh Savary, Ph.D. “We are very pleased that the State of California and DOE support our science-based technology and goal of reducing the environmental footprint of the construction industry.”
TAKING MANHATTAN
One of the key stops on C-Crete Technologies’ path to commercializing its portland cement alternative is 270 Park Ave. in New York City. A 12-yd. C-Crete pour earlier this year netted a topping slab in the upper lobby area of the 1,388-ft. tower, future home of the JPMorganChase global headquarters.
“The performance of C-Crete for concrete on metal deck, topping slabs, sidewalks and landscape work, coupled with its eco-friendly attributes, makes it a revolutionary product for the future of the construction industry,” says Fortunato Orlando, senior associate principal at Severud Associates, lead 270 Park Ave. engineer. “The ease of handling and smooth curing process are significant advantages that enhance overall construction efficiency and quality.”
The project highlights how forward-thinking companies like Severud, along with fellow 270 Park project principals Tishman Speyer, AECOM Tishman, Foster + Partners, and SRM Ready Mix “are leading the charge to integrate superior new materials into urban development,” adds C-Crete Technologies.