Architectural concrete with low carbon impact

For more than 50 years, Decomo NV has been the address for architectural concrete. In Mouscron, more than 150 employees design, engineer and produce customized precast elements for new construction and renovation. "Our project-specific solutions derive their uniqueness not only from the concrete composition, but also from a wide range of shapes, colors and textures," explains Account Manager for the Netherlands Werner Hulstaert. "In addition to acidified, washed and blasted finishes, we place a high priority on polished concrete, in which we are one of the European market leaders. Also unique is the way in which we use architectural concrete in the facade and enable a perfect connection with, for example, frame profiles, electrical provisions and facade grids. In consultation with the contractor, we like to determine the right construction method for each project."

Concrete is ironclad. Moreover, the material has a high heat capacity, excellent acoustic insulation and high fire resistance. "Yet its application is under fire," Hulstaert notes. "After all, concrete is said to be unsustainable and environmentally friendly. Criticisms that are nullified when the long lifespan and high quality are respected. Cement suppliers, among others, are making very great efforts to reduce their CO₂-impact significantly. For example, by producing cement with a low carbon footprint, but also by focusing on alternative, green fuels. Thanks to their efforts, compared to 5 years ago, the net CO₂-emissions already reduced by about 50%."

Durable cements

In addition to the production itself, the product composition of cement is also under a magnifying glass, he notes. For example, how can the clinker percentage be reduced? What sustainable additives are then needed? And how can temperatures be reduced? "This attention results in interesting new cement compositions, which should counteract the negative image of concrete. As an organization, we follow these developments closely. Moreover, we are involved in various studies, to determine the necessary preconditions for the sustainable cements."

Insulated cladding elements

As a concrete manufacturer, Decomo works exclusively with leading cement suppliers, who are high on innovation and sustainability. "And we also take considerable steps ourselves," Hulstaert said. "For example, our factory is full of PV panels and we use and recover rainwater. Innovative at the product level are our sandwich elements with thin inner shell, with which we respond to the aesthetic desire for deep recesses and multiple levels in the exterior facade. By using the outer shell as a self-supporting element, the inner shell can be reduced to just 5-7 centimeters. With this customized solution, if projects lend themselves to it, we can work with the entire project team to further fulfill the sustainability ambition of many clients."