The Nano crystallization process developed by PowerCem Technologies is created by applying a mixture of soil of any kind (organic and inorganic), synthetic zeolites and cement.
The porous and intricate nature of zeolite structures allows for the total hydration of the mixture, uniquely this allows cement to be hydrated to 100%, reducing cement requirements by up to 30%. There is also a substantial increase in the generation of calcium crystals that provide increased resistance and mechanical properties in stabilization.
Zeolites are aluminosilicate minerals of porous nature, in their natural state they have a three-dimensional panel structure, which stands out for its ability to hydrate and dehydrate. These minerals are normally found in both sedimentary and volcanic and metamorphic rocks. Based on the years of research by PowerCem BV in the Netherlands into the structure of zeolites in their natural state, more than 150 variations of synthetic zeolites were created from nanotechnology processes which are now used to fulfil specific functions in the three PowerCem products.
The specially designed synthetic zeolites and other patent components allow stabilisation of any type of soil and provide unique properties that allow a better interaction between soil, cement, and zeolites to improve their characteristics.
The Nano stabilisation process created by PowerCem can take full advantage of the fine particles found in waste stream ashes; PFA, GGBS and IBA. Recent research by several UK Universities has shown that these ashes can be used to directly to replace cement in mixes by up to 70%, as shown in the following chart.
The above chart shows early seven-day results with a cohesive clay and is based on a mix design of 8% cementitious bonder.
Whilst these results show the efficacy of replacing high carbon cements with waste ash steams. The true benefit of the nano process is the denseness of the crystallisation, which allows our partners Rodgers Leask Consulting Engineers to provide contractors with a bound soil product design that is virtually crack free and impermeable.
Using Bisar strain analysis software high dynamic strength models can be tailored to meet client’s foundation base loading requirements with a high degree of accuracy for most ground conditions and soil types.
Nano soil stabilisation vastly reduces the occurrence of voids, which can:
- Increase permeability
- Increase the risk of settlement
- Reduce stability
- Reduce shear strength
- Increase the potential for swelling and shrinkage characteristics
Nano soil stabilisation acts as a water barrier when used for pavements, embankments and foundations for any infrastructure elements creating strength that will remain a constant for many years.