Types of Concrete

High-strength concrete is just that: Stronger than modern concrete. In fact, it is designed to resist over 6,000 psi, or pounds per square inch, making it ideal for highly trafficked surfaces.

High-strength concrete also includes silica fume to further enhance the bond between cement and the aggregate in the concrete mixture. The result is an even stronger concrete that performs as it should.

While high-strength concrete is known for its compressive resistance, high-performance concrete is known for other qualities. These qualities include:

• Ease of placement, all without compromising strength
• Toughness
• Lifespan, even when placed in various weather conditions
• Long-term mechanical properties

More durable and performance-driven than both high-strength and high-performance concrete combined, ultra high-performance concrete combines the best of both for a truly superior product.

The mixture is comprised of Portland cement, silica fume, quartz flour, and fine silica sand. Other additives like steel or organic fibers, water, and high-range water reducers are also added to further enhance the strength of this type of concrete.

This concrete is well-known because it requires no steel rebar for reinforcement, allowing it to withstand compressive strength up to 29,000 psi. Due to its unique mixture, this strength isn’t compromised by cracks, either.

Known for its aesthetic appeal, stamped concrete is commonly used in parking lots, walkways, driveways, and other surfaces. Its main appeal is that once laid, a design can be stamped into the surface, giving it the appearance of natural stone.

Self-consolidating concrete eliminates the need for mechanical vibrations during setting because it is more malleable than traditional concrete. Because of this, it can be placed more quickly, saving time, while also saving labor costs and making it simpler for workers to complete jobs efficiently (no matter the area or level of difficulty).

Shotcrete is a two-part process that involves a compressed air nozzle and water hose. It’s applied by shooting the dry mixture at the wall or surface and then using the separate hose to add water to the mix.

There are two types of shotcrete used today:

• Dry-Mix – Dry-mix shotcrete is created by feeding a hopper continuously through the nozzle and at its final destination where water is then added.
• Wet-Mix – Wet-mix shotcrete uses pre-mixed concrete to produce less waste and added efficiency to any project.

Limecrete is a concrete alternative that combines natural lime and an aggregate to create a breathable concrete mixture. The lime in limecrete offers environmental benefits by absorbing carbon dioxide while utilizing natural materials like wood, straw, and hemp to prevent deterioration and moisture.

Because lime is nontoxic, it eliminates the health risks of traditional concrete as well.