FP McCann trials start on precast Earth Friendly Concrete pipes and manholes

FP McCann has manufactured the UK’s first cement-free precast manhole rings and pipes at the company’s Knockloughrim precast factory using Earth Friendly Concrete (EFC) from Wagners. Instead of Portland cement, FP McCann worked with international partners to introduce a geopolymer low-carbon binder that is formed from the chemical activation of Fly Ash and Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag.

It is claimed that replacing the Portland cement with this geopolymer binder, made using the materials from recycling streams, can reduce the overall environmental impact and the CO₂ emissions of the concrete by up to 80%.

In addition to its low carbon credentials, high performance concrete made with this novel material is achieving similar strengths to traditional concrete while, due to the chemistry of the geopolymer binder, providing improved durability in many aggressive environments.

After extensive research and use in the UK’s ready-mix industry, the next step will be an introduction of the geopolymer concrete in the precast sector.  Here, the low carbon alternatives can combine with modern manufacturing methods to provide a truly innovative solution for the construction sector.

This work is carried out in conjunction with FP McCann’s wider low carbon initiative, working closely with suppliers and customers to provide economical, high-quality, and sustainable products.