Zirkulit and EuroTube conducting research into circular concrete

The manufacturer of circular concrete based in Kloten in the canton of Zurich, zirkulit AG, and the independent Zurich-based foundation EuroTube, have joined forces to develop a special concrete mix, further details of which can be found in a press release. This contains both a high proportion of local and CO2-enriched circular materials in addition to meeting the requirements for pre-stressed, pre-cast concrete parts for Hyperloop tubes.

Hyperloop is a rail-guided transport system in a network of vacuum tubes. The vacuum reduces air resistance, and a magnetic levitation drive eliminates friction. Speeds of 1,000 kilometers per hour are therefore possible, while the energy consumption would be on a par with that of a conventional train.

“We are focusing on the use of sustainable materials for the construction of infrastructure, which, in turn, are manufactured as part of a low emissions production process and recycled over their life cycle”, comments Doré de Morsier, founder and Chairman of the EuroTube Board of Trustees. “Zirkulit is an ideal partner that shares our vision”, he adds.

According to the information in the press release, the concrete used in Hyperloop tubes must be able to withstand high loads, in addition to being as lightweight as possible and installed in such a way that saves as much material as possible. Stress tests on concrete test tubes will seek to confirm the suitability of the material. With this research focused on future technologies in the construction industry, “we are facing up to the technical challenges”, says zirkulit Managing Director Patrick Eberhard, “and are taking the next step into the future in the development of circular concrete”.