Graphene, the "wonder material" discovered at the University of Manchester in 2004, may hold the key to reducing the carbon footprint of the construction industry. Concrete is the most widely used substance in the world, with twice the usage of steel, wood, plastics, and aluminum combined. However, the production of cement, which is used to make concrete, creates around 8% of all CO2 emissions — more than what’s caused by all the trucks across the globe.
Nationwide Engineering, a British construction business, has developed a new additive called Concretene, which consists of graphene produced at the University of Manchester. When added in small quantities during the concrete mixing process, the graphene provides both mechanical support and an active surface for chemical reactions that occur during cement hydration and hardening.
Initial tests of Concretene have shown that it is up to 30-50% stronger than standard concrete, and subsequent lab tests have shown strength gains that surpass 100%. This means that the volume of cement required can be significantly reduced without impairing performance, ultimately reducing the CO2 impact.
In 2021, NERD (Nationwide Engineering Research and Development) laid the world's first graphene concrete slab across the floor of a new gym in England. Further trials followed at a roller disco and a residential development. In total, more than 1,000 tonnes of Concretene have now been poured in real-world projects. The next target is to push the product into the mainstream.
Recent breakthroughs in mass-production of graphene have restored faith from investors and in December, Concretene raised £8m from a VC funding round led by LocalGlobe. The cash will be used to accelerate the commercialization plans and work with Heathrow Airport, Network Rail, Yorkshire Water, and the Environment Agency. The first road trial of Concretene with National Highways is also set to begin soon.
"Concretene is being put through 'live' trials in the places where it can be used most," says Alex McDermott, Co-founder of Concretene. "This is a key step to achieving industry adoption." Graphene concrete, Concretene, offers a way to significantly reduce concrete's carbon footprint and meet the requirements of the Paris Agreement on climate change. The construction industry is facing a daunting challenge to reduce emissions by at least 16% by 2030, but with the help of graphene, it may be possible to achieve this goal.