Concrete is an important construction material, used all of the world. It is used extensively in roads, buildings, bridges, dams, sidewalks, patios, and more. Not all concrete is the same. From its uses, composition, and even the way it hardens – there are many different forms of concrete worldwide. Below are a few examples of the many concrete compounds being used today.
Modern Concrete
Regular concrete is a mixture of Portland cement (a limestone-based powder), aggregate, and water. Modern concrete is the most man-produced material in the world. From building, rebuilding, and improving infrastructure around the globe, regular concrete will surely continue to be one the of the largest industries worldwide.
High-Strength Concrete
High-strength concrete is different from modern concrete based on the amount of force is can resist, before it begins to breakdown. High-strength concrete is typically recognized as a concrete with a compressive strength higher than 6000 PSI. High-strength concrete can be categorized under an umbrella term known as High-Performance Concrete, which refers to any concrete with special properties, not attributed to normal concrete.
 |
Stamped Concrete
Often used in the construction of foot paths, parking lots, and other high-traffic areas - Stamped concrete is another commonly used type of concrete. Once the concrete has been poured, molds or stamps can be used to add a decorative or architectural shape to the concrete – often in the form of natural stone or brick patterns. Once the mold has set, concrete sealant is typically sprayed over the product to increase the longevity of the concrete.
Concrete has come a long way, from the early Roman streets to massive skyscrapers with compressive strength above 15,000 PSI. Ever-evolving, concrete is sure to exceed expectations for years to come.
