Performance
Pushing the limits of materials
For example, our work on UHPFRC (Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete), which is more durable and about three times stronger than ordinary concrete; and the increased performance of our cable-stay systems with 2160 MPa strands compared with an average of 1860 MPa at present, make it possible to create ever lighter and stronger structures.
Developing new processes
Particularly in our repair activities, to increase productivity. For example, mastering the formulation of UHPFRC and developing specific equipment to apply on site using a spray technique now makes it possible to use high performance concrete on major structures without the need for formwork.
Durability
Protecting structures
The protection of steel against corrosion (by sea salt, pollution, infiltration, etc.) is a subject of permanent research: for example, the upgraded protection of our stay cable anchorages and prestressing cables, the improvement of the quality of the ducts, the formulation of injection grouts with a low water content, etc.
Repairing and extending the life of existing structures
The ageing of structures is generating a growing need for renovation, and innovation is playing a new role in this field: various techniques for repairing and protecting concrete, wood and steel, treatment of reinforcement bars, development of high-density carbon fiber fabrics and associated fast-setting resins compatible with the constraints of rapid return to traffic, new processes for lifting or replacing structural elements, etc.
Increasing the life span of new structures
Our prestressing and cable-stay systems are now designed for a life span of 100-120 years, depending on the environment. We are also seeking to extend the life of our bearing devices with new low friction and low wear sliding materials that can support ever higher loads, and to facilitate their maintenance. We are also working on two-in-one solutions integrating structural reinforcement and cathodic protection.
Environment
Freyssinet is acutely aware of the responsibility that the construction industry has to reduce its carbon emissions as part of the global effort to avoid the predicted climate crisis.
We adopted the Sustainable Technology tagline more than a decade ago and we continue to consider that our key technologies inherently benefit the planet by reducing materials, concrete and steel in particular, increasing efficiency and avoiding costly reconstruction.
We are working to quantify and reduce our impact on embodied CO2 and strongly favour environmentally friendly solutions that reduce material use or wastage and increase sustainability of site implementation and logistics.
Examples of this focus are our recent development of non-cementitious geopolymer grouts and our long-term vision for 3D printed high performance concrete.
Digital transformation
Facilitating interactions with our customers
With for example simpler and more complete access to our offers and solutions, including BIM models or a TFC reinforcement calculator, as can be seen on this website.
Digitizing our construction solutions
An emblematic example is our “Connected PT” technology, which allows us to record in real time the entire prestressing process, with respect to cable forces and strand extensions. We plan to extend these controls and recordings to grouting, which is a key quality factor in prestressing technology today.
Digitizing our sites
In particular their management and productivity monitoring.
Providing remote monitoring of the maintenance of structures
Thanks to virtual reality, carrying out non-intrusive examinations, using drones…
