Euclid Chemical – ARTICLE PLACEMENT SUMMARIES
MARCH 2021:
5 Tips for Applying Epoxy Coatings in Cold Weather
From scratches and abrasion, to harmful chemicals, epoxy coatings are a necessary part of protecting surfaces from various types of damage. Although these coatings can be applied in colder weather, both the ambient temperature and the temperature of the concrete will affect the epoxy’s rate of reaction and degree of cure. Therefore, they must be handled and applied using techniques specifically tailored to the environment. If applied in cooler temperatures, the epoxy will not reach a complete cure or achieve its designed physical properties—ultimately leading it to fail prematurely. In this article, we offer five tips to ensure the successful application of epoxy coatings under cold weather conditions.
To learn more, read our March 2021 article on ForConstructionPros.com.
MAY 2021:
How to Prevent Coating Defects Caused by Concrete Outgassing
Although concrete is commonly perceived as a dry and dense substance, it is actually an inherently porous material that more closely resembles a hard sponge. Within concrete’s matrix are microscopic voids and capillaries that allow air and moisture to flow through during pouring and placement. Certain air voids or intentional air entrainment is beneficial for concrete because it improves the substrate’s freeze/thaw resistance. However, air entrainment can cause coating defects on the surface as a result of concrete outgassing. Seasonal changes and rising ambient temperatures only amplify these issues during the coating application process. In this article, we discuss three methods that you can use to identify and prevent coating defects caused by concrete outgassing.
To learn more, read our May 2021 article in Concrete Décor and our May 2021 article on ForConstructionPros.com.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022:
Treating Concrete Cracks with Epoxy Healer/Sealer Coatings
Today’s concrete technology provides several ways to help limit the size and avoidance of cracks in concrete. Despite the use of various preventative measures ranging from a sound subgrade and proper curing, to the use of shrinkage-reducing admixtures and evaporation retarders, concrete substrates can still be prone to cracking. As a result, the cracking allows water, sulfates, chlorides and other harmful agents to penetrate the concrete—thus accelerating surface spalling and the corrosion of steel reinforcement. This can be particularly concerning when it occurs on high-use horizontal slabs, such as bridges and parking decks. In this article, we discuss how epoxy healer/sealer coating materials can be used to successfully treat concrete cracking.
To learn more, read our January/February 2022 article in Concrete Repair Bulletin.
FEBRUARY 2022:
Guide to Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: Tips for Design, Specification & Application
In the face of ongoing price increases and material shortages, the concrete construction industry has increasingly turned to fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to steel rebar and wire mesh. A follow-up piece to our September 2021 article that highlighted the seven key benefits of utilizing FRC in concrete construction, this article provides a deeper dive into the practical use of fiber-reinforced concrete—from design and specification, to application and finishing.
To learn more, read our February 2022 article on ForConstructionPros.com.
JUNE & SEPTEMBER 2022:
Three Ways to Protect Concrete from Water
Concrete has been used as a strong, durable building material for thousands of years, dating back to many ancient concrete structures that are still standing to this day. Yet, it has one fundamental enemy it can’t escape—water. As an uptick in humidity and rainstorms wash across many regions of the country throughout the summer months, water infiltration can lead to issues such as below-grade reinforcement corrosion, surface scaling, aggregate expansion, mold growth and more. In this article, we explain why concrete isn’t inherently waterproof, the various issues that can arise from water infiltration, and how concrete can be protected by leveraging reactive technologies like crystalline waterproofing and silicone-based water repellent sealers.
To learn more, read our September 2022 article in Concrete Products Magazine and our June 2022 article on ForConstructionPros.com.
JULY 2022:
Shrinkage Cracks & Heat: Best Practices for Hot Weather Concreting
Placement of concrete in hot weather conditions can make it difficult to maintain concrete quality and desired properties. However, it is not just the temperature of concrete that must be controlled during placement. Other factors like ambient temperature, humidity, wind speed and exposure to sunlight also play a significant role in the hydration process of cement. Difficult to control during the summer months, these factors can alter the physical setting characteristics of the concrete mixture. In fact, hot weather conditions can create a wide range of difficulties in placing and finishing fresh concrete—from increased water demand and accelerated slump loss, to the inability to control entrained air characteristics and reach desired strength requirements. In this article, we provide the latest best practices to ensure a successful outcome for hot weather concreting.
To learn more, read our July 2022 bylined article on ForConstructionPros.com.
JANUARY 2023 & SEPTEMBER 2021:
7 Key Benefits of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
In the years following the COVID pandemic, construction materials such as steel—a necessary material for use in traditional concrete applications—have been significantly impacted by price increases and material shortages. While this is certainly concerning for businesses and municipalities that are in the process of construction projects involving parking decks, roads, bridges and other concrete-related repairs, these challenges have prompted the concrete construction industry to increasingly rely on fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC). In this article, we discuss the seven key benefits of utilizing FRC.
To learn more, read our January 2023 article in Structure Magazine and our September 2021 article on ForConstructionPros.com.
MARCH 2023:
Save Money, Build Faster: Synthetic Macrofibers in Concrete Construction
Despite a rapidly evolving market in the face of widespread supply chain challenges and material shortages, speed continues to be a driving factor for the concrete construction industry. While macrofibers can significantly cut time from the project schedule and reduce overall construction costs, the question then becomes how do contractors know which macrofiber to use? In this article, we explain how synthetic macrofibers can be successfully utilized in concrete construction projects.
To learn more, read our March 2023 article on ForConstructionPros.com and listen to our podcast interview on the Digging Deeper podcast.
SEPTEMBER 2023, OCTOBER 2023, JANUARY 2024 & MARCH 2024:
Fibers 101: A Contractor’s Guide to Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
As the demand for more sustainable construction grows and steel shortages continue to be a challenge, fiber-reinforced concrete has become an increasingly popular choice for flatwork and elevated construction—from precast and ready-mix concrete to shotcrete. In this article, we discuss why fibers are a superior choice for concrete applications, how synthetic fibers compare to steel, and various considerations when it comes to the concrete mix design and application process.
To learn more, read our September 2023 article in Concrete Décor, our September 2023 article in Modern Contractor Solutions, our October 2023 article in Concrete Facts Magazine, our January 2024 article on ForConstructionPros.com and our March 2024 article in Precast Today.
APRIL 2024:
Treating Cracks in Concrete with Epoxy Healer & Sealer Coatings
Current advancements in concrete technology offer a wide range of solutions to minimize and prevent cracking. From a solid subgrade and shrinkage-reducing admixtures to fiber reinforcement and low water-to-cement ratios, contractors have a wealth of tools at their disposal. However, even with these preventative measures, cracking can still occur in a concrete surface. In this article, we explore the best practices for effectively addressing those inevitable cracks with epoxy healer and sealer coatings.
To learn more, read our April 2024 front-cover article in On-Site Magazine.
JUNE 2024:
Preserving Beauty Year-Round: Seasonal Maintenance for Decorative Concrete
From driveways and patios to walkways and beyond, decorative concrete is an incredibly versatile and durable choice for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor area. Keeping these surfaces looking their best requires a maintenance regimen that considers the distinct challenges of each season, which can impact both the longevity and appearance of decorative concrete. In this article, we discuss several strategies that can be used to protect the craftsmanship of decorative concrete year-round.
To learn more, read our June 2024 article in Concrete Décor.
AUGUST, SEPTEMBER & DECEMBER 2024:
Revitalizing Outdoor Spaces with Decorative Concrete
Having evolved beyond its traditional view as a utilitarian solution, decorative concrete has gained popularity among architects and designers as a versatile canvas that can be used to create outdoor spaces that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are durable and cost effective. In this article, we explore how decorative concrete can offer exceptional design flexibility and performance in a range of applications—from commercial developments and garden features to walkways and pool decks.
To learn more, read our August 2024 article in Concrete Décor, our September 2024 article in Modern Contractor Solutions, and our December 2024 article in Concrete Facts Magazine.
SEPTEMBER 2024 & JANUARY 2025:
Future-Proofing Concrete: Innovative, Cost-Effective Ways to Expand Concrete Lifespan
As the backbone of modern infrastructure, concrete forms the foundation of structures ranging from towering skyscrapers and expansive bridges to residential homes and public walkways. Because of its inherent strength, adaptability and relatively low cost compared to alternative building materials, concrete has remained the most widely used material in construction for centuries. However, the environmental impact of concrete production, coupled with challenges posed by aging infrastructure and changing climate conditions, is prompting a paradigm shift toward future-proofing concrete. In this article, we offer innovative and cost-effective solutions for prolonging concrete lifespan.
To learn more, read our September 2024 article on ForConstructionPros.com and January 2025 article in Concrete International.
SEPTEMBER 2024:
Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Concrete Construction
As concrete has become a major contributor to global carbon emissions, the industry is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact. Many cement manufacturers are developing low-carbon formulas, while researchers are exploring ways to lower the carbon footprint of concrete projects through recycled and alternative aggregates. Fiber-reinforced concrete is also gaining traction as a key innovation in reducing emissions across applications like parking lots, bridge decks, and roadways. In this article, we discuss how contractors can select and use fiber types effectively in concrete.
To learn more, read our September 2024 article in On-Site Magazine.
OCTOBER 2024:
Decorative Concrete: Why Weatherproofing is a Must for Long-Lasting Beauty
Known for its unique designs and artistic appeal, decorative concrete is a popular material in modern construction projects. Whether it’s a stamped driveway, a stylish patio or an intricate walkway, decorative concrete adds both functionality and visual interest to any space. However, like all materials, decorative concrete is subject to wear and tear—particularly from weather-related factors such as rain, snow and UV radiation. Without proper weatherproofing, this exposure can lead to water damage and gradual deterioration. Over time, this can significantly impact the concrete structure’s appearance, durability and longevity. In this article, we will explore the common risks posed by weather on decorative concrete, why weatherproofing matters, and effective methods for safeguarding these surfaces against damage.
To learn more, read our October 2024 article in Concrete Décor.
NOVEMBER 2024:
Helping the Environment: Euclid Chemical among Companies turning to Environmental Product Declarations as a way to develop more sustainable construction practices
A notable trend in construction these days is the rising demand for Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) – documents that provide material purchasers and project managers with a detailed look at a product’s environmental impact at various points during its life cycle.
Euclid Chemical, a manufacturer of specialty concrete and masonry products based in Cleveland, Ohio, is among the construction companies riding this wave. It recently completed an EPD for its three Canadian admixture plants in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta and plans to generate more for its U.S. operations.
To learn more, read our November 2024 product profile in Piling Canada.
DECEMBER 2024:
Cost-Effective Techniques for Revitalizing Decorative Concrete Surfaces
Decorative concrete has become a staple for both residential and commercial construction, thanks to its strength, versatility and aesthetic possibilities. However, like all surfaces, it is subject to wear and tear from the elements, foot traffic and the passage of time.
For contractors, revitalizing these surfaces without resorting to full replacements is key to maintaining client satisfaction and staying within project budgets. Fortunately, there are a range of cost-effective techniques—such as polishable overlays, sprayable toppings and other resurfacing methods—that can restore decorative concrete to its former glory.
To learn more, read our December 2024 article in Concrete Contractor.
DECEMBER 2024 & JANUARY 2025:
Sustainable Concrete Practices & Technologies To Look Out for in 2025
As the world faces the urgent need to reduce its environmental impact, the construction industry is responding with new innovations that make concrete—a cornerstone of modern building—a more sustainable option in construction. For those specializing in decorative and specialty concrete, the next few years will bring exciting opportunities to embrace new materials and methods that not only reduce the carbon footprint of concrete projects but enhance the design possibilities.
As we head into 2025, the future of concrete will be rooted in sustainability through the use of more innovative materials, advanced technologies and evolving industry standards.
To learn more, read our December 2024 article in Concrete Décor and our January 2025 article in Roads & Bridges.