Fire proof material relies on Secret formula
6 Nov 2009 by Evoluted New Media
A new building material that is fire resistant to temperatures in excess of 1100°C, and made from recycled materials could reduce fire risks in power stations
A new building material that is fire resistant to temperatures in excess of 1100°C, and made from recycled materials could reduce fire risks in power stations
Developed at Sheffield Hallam University, Liquid Granite is a versatile material that can be used in a similar way to concrete and offers a real breakthrough in reducing fire risks in building such as power stations, domestic and commercial buildings. It can withstand high temperatures for longer periods and can offer added time of evacuation in emergencies. It has a four hour fire rating, meaning that it provides the top level protection in case of a fire and doesn’t explode at high temperatures like concrete.
“I believe it has great potential for the future” said Professor Pal Magat, director of the Centre of Infrastructure Management at Sheffield Hallam University and developer of Liquid Granite. He added “The product replaces most of the cement in standard concrete with a secret formula of products to change the basic properties of the material.”
It uses less than one third of the cement in precast concrete, reducing its carbon footprint. It is made up of between 30 and 70% recycled material, mostly base products from the industry.
Bob Richards from Liquid Granite Ltd said there has been great interest in the product from the building industry, and has already been supplied for projects such as the Olympic Village and Stratford Shopping Centre. He said: “It will really make a difference to the safety of our buildings and could potentially save lives.”
