In the quest for sustainable living and construction practices, the relationship between concrete and carbon dioxide is both a challenge and an opportunity. Like many communities, Roseville benefits from environmentally-friendly building methods. That’s why we all should be interested in leveraging concrete’s inherent qualities for a more sustainable future.
The Concrete Carbon Dioxide Conundrum
Concrete, the bedrock of modern construction, owes its durability and versatility to cement. Unfortunately, this key ingredient creates significant environmental challenges. Cement is made by first heating limestone to very high temperatures in order to change it into lime. That usually requires burning a lot of carbon-based fuels. Even if you use sunlight or clean forms of energy to drive the production of lime, the chemical process itself releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Making cement is therefore one of the biggest contributors to the greenhouse effect and climate change.
Concrete’s Capacity for Carbon Capture
Concrete’s environmental narrative does improve after it leaves the production kiln. Over time, concrete actually reabsorbs carbon dioxide in a process called carbonation. Up to 60% of the carbon dioxide emitted during cement production is reabsorbed as the concrete ages. That reduces concrete’s environmental impact over its lifespan. On the downside, carbonation in mature concrete can eventually damage the metal supports inside, crumbling the concrete and weakening the structure.
Innovations in Concrete Carbon Reduction
New manufacturing techniques inject carbon dioxide into the concrete as it is being made. This both accelerates the carbonation process, thus locking away a greenhouse gas faster, and eliminates the damaging aspects of carbonation. It adds more cost to the concrete, but makes it stronger in the long-term, while simultaneously providing an environmental advantage.
Epoxy Coatings Extend Concrete’s Lifecycle
Protecting concrete with epoxy coatings safeguards it from premature deterioration. That reduces the amount of concrete needed for Roseville and beyond! West Coast Epoxy stands at the forefront of this effort, offering epoxy solutions that not only protect concrete surfaces, but also bring aesthetic improvements to residential and commercial spaces.
A Sustainable Path Forward
West Coast Epoxy remains committed to providing Roseville residents with epoxy flooring solutions that stand the test of time. Whether you’re looking to enhance the functionality of a commercial space or the beauty of a residential garage, our expertise in epoxy applications offers a pathway to achieving your goals with an eye toward environmental stewardship. To explore how epoxy coatings can transform your concrete surfaces and contribute to a more sustainable world, reach out to West Coast Epoxy. Together, we can make a lasting impact, one floor at a time!