Ecocem introduces Superfine, a low CO2, finer GGBS as a high-performance additive

Higher strength, better durability and lower carbon footprint for concrete mixtures

For 20 years, Ecocem has manufactured and supplied low-carbon aggregates that help make the cement and construction industries more sustainable. The Irish company is now introducing Ecocem Superfine, an ultra-fine ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS). The new granulate improves the strength, rheology and durability of concrete. According to Paul Roos, managing director of Ecocem Benelux, Superfine proves the company's daily efforts to reduce CO₂-emissions from the cement industry as soon as possible.

Ground granulated blast furnace slag or GGBS is a residual product from the steel industry that has been processed into an aggregate for binders, industrial mortar, ultra-high strength concrete and precast concrete. Ecocem Superfine is very finely ground which makes it react faster in contact with water. As a result, using Superfine reduces carbon emissions, improves rheology, strength and durability of concrete.

Safe and effective

Superfine is Ecocem's latest major innovation and was developed at the innovation center opened in Paris last October. Superfine GGBS contains no chemical additives such as chromium and has an ideal pH value, making it a safe and effective additive for the formulation of any concrete mix. In addition, the new admixture is whiter, which reduces the amount of pigment required and allows for a more attractive concrete finish.

Higher sustainability

Superfine has been extensively tested in Abu Dhabi. The data shows that Ecocem Superfine is a good substitute for microsilica and provides better performance in ultra-high strength concrete. The additive contributes to higher sustainability through reduced material use, local production, reduced transportation, and the fact that the additive is circular and fully recyclable. Superfine will be available throughout Europe.

Innovation as the basis

Paul Roos, as managing director of Ecocem Benelux, endorses the added value of Superfine. 'At Ecocem we put a lot of time into research and Superfine is a good example of our innovative and sustainable concrete solutions. We see innovation as our foundation. Ecocem has been leading the way for more than 20 years and we have developed and are still developing several technologies that can halve the carbon footprint of traditional cement production. The introduction of Superfine is proof of our efforts to reduce CO2 emissions from the cement industry as quickly as possible.'