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Practical Nano Silica Solutions For Concrete

Sustainable Structures Mission

Concrete is the most widely used building material on Earth and is the foundation and backbone of most structures. However, modern-day concrete does not last nearly as long as concrete placed thousands of years ago. We have lost our way. New structures need to be designed and constructed with long-term durability in mind. Less importance should be placed on 28-day compressive strength, and more importance should be placed on crack/shrinkage reduction and permeability reduction. We help designers and contractors create structures that will last by using concrete mixes and best practices that are truly sustainable. Quality is built in, not bolted on, as the saying goes. A sustainable structure is one that doesn’t have to be replaced for centuries.

Not only is our approach wise from a durability perspective, but it also reduces the carbon footprint of new concrete produced more than anything else on the market. As technology improves, we will keep abreast of it so we always offer the best on the market. Our approach will always focus on what’s best for the earth and what works, not short-term profits.

Sustainability also means preserving the structures we have. After all, it is wise to maintain and protect what we have in place so it lasts longer, if possible. This involves remediation and treatment of existing concrete surfaces. If the surface durability is improved, the concrete structure’s lifespan can be increased by decades, saving money and reducing the impact on the environment.

INTERESTING READING

A man is pouring concrete into a metal grid on a construction site.

An Open Letter to the Concrete Industry

By Joe Shetterley • April 4, 2025
After 30+ years in concrete finishing, I'm witnessing unprecedented surface issues across our industry. The root cause? A perfect storm of changes that nobody's talking about.
A person is using a hose to curing a concrete surface.

7 Day Water Curing of Concrete - It isn't WORKING!

By Robert Higgins • March 27, 2025
Again I read a series of studies that concentrate ONLY on concrete compressive value limited to the 28 day strength. Interestingly, there are discrepancies that are noted but not investigated, even as the discrepancies threaten to undo the data that was apparently the original objective.
A large white house with a large patio in front of it.

Why We're Getting Concrete Curing All Wrong (And What It's Costing Us)

By Joe Shetterley • March 27, 2025
Let me tell you something that keeps me up at night: we're completely dropping the ball on concrete curing. It's not just a small oversight - it's a massive failure that's costing us millions in repairs and replacements. And the worst part? Almost nobody's talking about it.
A patio with a wooden roof and a table underneath it.

Moisture migration through concrete floors; a persistent non-fact

By Robert Higgins • March 27, 2025
For several decades, like many others, I was taught and led to believe that all flooring and coating failures were caused by moisture migration from the underside of concrete.
A man is pouring concrete into a metal grid on a construction site.

The Concrete Industry's Forgotten Secret: It's Time To Look Within

By Joe Shetterley • September 28, 2024
For decades, the concrete industry has been chasing a mirage. We've poured billions into developing fancy new coatings, sealants, and curing compounds, all promising to be the solution to concrete's perennial problems: cracking, spalling, and degradation. But in our pursuit of the latest quick fix, we've forgotten a fundamental truth about concrete. The real enemy isn't the elements – it's ourselves. And the solution lies not in some expensive add-on but in understanding and addressing the inherent flaws at the very heart of concrete itself.

The Detrimental Impact Of High Compressive Strength And Safety Factors In Concrete Mix Design

By Joe Shetterley • August 22, 2024
In the pursuit of ever-stronger concrete, the industry has embraced mixes with high compressive strengths and safety factors. While these metrics may seem desirable, they actually promote detrimental practices that compromise concrete's durability, sustainability, and workability. It's time to reassess our priorities and get back to basics.
A man is pouring concrete into a concrete form.

Why is polished concrete considered sustainable?

By Rory Bosma • August 8, 2024
Durability: Polished concrete is extremely durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. This means fewer resources are consumed over time.

Sustainable Structures

Building a Stronger, Greener Future!

At Sustainable Structures, we believe in the power of innovation to drive sustainable construction practices. Our nano silica solutions represent the future of concrete technology, combining superior performance with environmental responsibility. Get ready to elevate your concrete projects with advanced nano silica solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or to schedule a consultation with one of our experts.

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