Graphene concrete trial shows cost reductions

Bio Graphene Solutions (BGS) has announced encouraging results from a recent trial of its organic graphene admixture in partnership with a major, un-named, North American precast concrete manufacturer. The trial focused on reducing cement use, a priority due to cement’s economic and environmental costs.

The manufacturer aimed to cut cement content by 10%, a target achieved with the BGS admixture. The trial also eliminated the need for an additional lubricating aid, typically used to improve concrete workability, resulting in a 47% reduction in admixture costs.

In terms of performance, the graphene-enhanced concrete surpassed initial strength expectations. “The concrete withstood 8,000 to 17,000 pounds of pressure without cracking or breaking,” reported BGS. After 28 days, the concrete strength was 43% higher than required, with no issues related to flowability, friction, or sagging.

David Fisher, CEO and co-founder of BGS, emphasised the importance of delivering both cost efficiency and quality for the industry. “Providing manufacturers with a product that lowers costs while still maintaining high quality—and that fits right into their existing process—is imperative,” he said. “Our partners are keen to explore alternatives that could become future industry standards.”

Gary Van Dusen, CTO and co-founder, highlighted the environmental motivations behind their graphene research. “Considering that the concrete industry is responsible for 8% of all global greenhouse gases, we are committed to developing lower-carbon solutions for our partners,” Van Dusen said.

The BGS admixture, made from non-graphite sources using a thermal-mechanical process, could be a step forward for durable, sustainable concrete. This trial is part of BGS’s extensive testing program, which has included over 600 concrete mix designs tested by independent labs, as the company works to scale its graphene technology for commercial concrete applications.