Galliford Try, in partnership with Innovate UK, has secured a research grant to develop an eco-friendly concrete using graphene, a carbon-based material derived from graphite, to strengthen the mix.

The project, conducted in collaboration with Graphene@Manchester (part of Manchester University), CEMEX, and Northumbrian Water, will explore a groundbreaking method to reduce concrete's carbon footprint. The research aims to decarbonise concrete by incorporating micronised limestone and graphene-based additives into the mixture, offering a more sustainable alternative for the construction industry.

-- Advertisement --

The approach is targeted aims to reduce reliance on Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), which is responsible for a significant portion of concrete's carbon emissions.

The use of micronised limestone as a Supplementary Cementitious Material (SCM) reduces the need for OPC, thereby decreasing carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, incorporating graphene, a novel 2D material, enhances the mechanical properties of the concrete, allowing for the use of higher SCM content without compromising strength development.

The material will be trialled at the Bran Sands site where Galliford Try is working on behalf of Northumbrian Water.