Architectural and Decorative Concrete
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the
world. One special subset is called architectural and decorative
concrete, which refers to a substance that provides an aesthetic finish
and structural capabilities in one. This material is made to be seen.
Whether creating broad expanses or minute details, concrete permanently
captures the chosen look. Achieving an architectural or decorative
appearance usually requires that something different be done to the
concrete. Whether that involves special forms, special finishing
techniques, or special ingredients, the variety of effects is almost
unlimited.
White cement concrete is a brilliant architectural material. Whether
plain or pigmented, it allows for a broad spectrum of colors-from
bright whites and pastels to saturated colors. It can be textured,
patterned, or shaped to almost any form, allowing architects to be
truly creative in their designs. Imagination becomes architectural
reality with white cement.
What makes white cement so architecturally appealing is its versatility.
It can be used for:
- Repair and retrofit applications
From large to small items, structural to decorative members, white
cement is the key to good looking concrete and masonry construction. A
versatile appearance allows white cement concrete, which is
pigment-friendly, to fit in with any environment. Beyond aesthetics,
its light color offers energy efficiency and safety.
These qualities can be used to advantage for:
- Bridge parapets and barrier medians
- Exposed architectural concrete
- City streetscapes: curbs & gutters, planters
- Whether inside or outside, white cement concrete provides a hard-wearing, durable surface that stands up to heavy use.
Technical Aspects of Designing with White Cement Concrete
White Portland cement has essentially the same properties as gray
cement, except for its color. An important quality control issue in the
industry, the color of white cement depends on raw materials and the
manufacturing process. Metal oxides, primarily iron and manganese,
influence the whiteness and undertone of the material. White cement is
manufactured to conform to ASTM C 150, Specification for Portland
Cement. Types I and III are the most common, but Types II and V are
also produced.
Mix designs for white or colored concrete are formulated with respect
to the following ingredients, paying particular attention to the
resultant effect on color:
- Type and dosage of pigment
- Type and dosage of chemical admixtures
- Type, gradation, color, and cleanliness of fine and coarse aggregates
- Type and dosage of supplementary cementing materials: calcined clay, slag, white silica fume
- Consistent proportions, especially maintaining a uniform water-cement ratio
It is always recommended to develop a mix design and build sample
panels in advance of starting a white cement concrete project. That
way, mixtures can be refined and improved and material usage can be
optimized. The mockups serve as references for color and surface
appearance during the construction phase of the project.
In North America, white cement is widely available and aggregates are
abundant throughout the country. In the end, no matter where you need
it, white cement concrete can be there.
