Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need

Concrete can be made to be stronger and last longer using Colloidal Silica (CS). Laboratory tests to date have demonstrated improved early and long term compression and flexural strength, much greater abrasion resistance, improved resistance to ASR and corrosion. International applications are showing improvements in sea/salt air environments. CS can be used as a mix additive and as a topical admixture to ease finishing and improve the surface hardness and lower permeability. Thus, setting up construction for a longer service life. CS is currently available in commercial products and some field demonstrations have shown excellent success. Dosages of CS are on the order of 1 gallon for a 10 yard mix, making deployment to foreign sites easily accomplished. So why is this research needed? The research proposed is for the Air Force. What is the best concrete for current construction and future service life? Modern concrete isn't just "1-2-3" mix cement, sand, gravel. Labor costs, time delays, performance, service life can all be improved with concrete mix designs using modern materials and expertise. The PI , Dr. Jon Belkowitz., is world famous for research and work internationally with Colloidal Silica in Concrete. A small investment can yield great benefits.