At the core of Nanogence is our advanced bespoke catalyst platform, which optimizes the cement particle hydration process at a nano-scale.
This process allows the hydration phase to be efficient, thereby creating the enhanced formation of crystals that provide the ‘glue’ within any cementitious matrix. This simple effect has benefits for both the strength and durability of the finished concrete in which it is used.
Optimizing cement at its core
When cement and Supplementary Cementitious Material is mixed with water, it hydrates and undergoes a number of chemical reactions, ultimately forming a matrix of interlocking crystals.
Hydration chemistry: In a concrete mix, these crystals bind the sand and aggregates together. When the Nanogence catalyst is introduced to the cement particle hydration phase, it is prolonged – meaning that a greater proportion of the cement is hydrated and can thereby contribute to the ultimate strength of the concrete.
Cement and SCM hydration: Cement and concrete have been used for thousands of years throughout the history of human evolution. However, the internal mechanics of how cement hydrates is fundamentally an inefficient process.
Modern-day concrete can still contain up to 35% un-hydrated cement within its cured structure. Being able to utilize this residual un-hydrated cement makes both economic and environmental sense. This molecular dilemma is at the core of the Nanogence proposition – and is why the Nanogence catalyst platform offers great benefits to both the economics of cement and concrete use, as well as the potential for widespread carbon footprint reduction in cementitious materials.
This process directly influences:
- Thermodynamics: Controls the type and quality of crystals formed during hydration.
- Kinetics: Accelerates the speed at which these crystals form, enhancing strength and durability.
Affordable, scalable, and sustainable
Nanogence requires no new installations or changes to existing manufacturing processes, making it cost-effective for clients.
Impact on market
- Cement: Reduces clinker and energy by 20-30%, and CO2 by 25-45%.
- Concrete: Lowers cement consumption by 10-20%, with no additional chemicals required.
- SCM: increase SCM by 20–30% without adding more cement.
- Production and delivery: Our fully automated in-house production system ensures efficient delivery of catalyst platforms to client sites, streamlining the process.
- Clean chemistry: Nanogence is built on clean chemistry principles, backed by two granted patents.
The value
Reducing the cement content in a Nanogence-enhanced concrete mix provides opportunities for cost savings as well as a reduced carbon footprint. Our catalyst platform enables significant reductions, depending on mix design and regulatory norms.