UK: The Times has reported on preliminary tests at Lancaster University, Lancashire, UK, which indicate that adding nanoplatelets from carrots and/or sugar beets to concrete significantly enhances its strength.
Including nanoplatelets is reported to increase the concentration of calcium silicate hydrate, leading directly to stronger cement. The researcher reported that, when platelets are added, 40kg less cement is required to make a cubic metre of concrete with the same strength as a sample that does not contain nanoplatelets. This leads to lower CO2 emissions.
The team added that nanoplatelets performed better than other additives, such as graphene. The concrete made also had a denser microstructure, which helps to prevent corrosion, extending concrete life.
