UK building materials company Tarmac has developed a new kind of concrete that instantly soaks up thousands of litres of water.
It is aimed at preventing flooding as well as saving water by cycling it back into the ground.
Gizmodo reports that the super-porous concrete, called Tarmac Topmix Permeable, is designed to remove storm and floodwater from parking lots, driveways, pavements, and other surfaces
The only problem is that it is only suitable for warmer climates. If the water freeze’s the system is ruined.
The company says the material works by having a high void content – the empty spaces in the aggregate – of between 20-35% that allows surface water to drain through into the sub-strata and dissipate naturally.
Originally published by Cosmos as Super-porous concrete drains 4,000 litres of water in a minute
Bill Condie
Bill Condie is a science journalist based in Adelaide, Australia.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
