Cement – the main ingredient in concrete – plays a critical role in America’s infrastructure.
Safe, strong and efficient infrastructure is the backbone of the U.S. economy, as transportation networks built with concrete connect large and small business to the global economy. Thanks to the cement used to make concrete, our roads and bridges, runways, ports and waterways are durable, resilient and built to serve our nation for generations to come.
Infrastructure Built with Concrete is:
- Durable
- Resilient
- Good Taxpayer Investment
Concrete pavements have been a mainstay of America’s infrastructure for more almost half a century, with many original structures still in service today. This material is strong enough to support our longest bridges, yet it is flexible enough to be molded into any size or shape. Concrete won’t rust or rot and is resistant to fires. Concrete can handle the freezing winters of our Northern states, to the scorching heat of Southwestern deserts.
Today, concrete is used for both new and existing infrastructure – with applications for reconstruction, resurfacing, restoration or rehabilitation. Here are the many reasons why concrete provides the literal foundation for our nation’s infrastructure:
- Long life
Concrete pavements have an average service life of 30-50 years.
- Low life-cycle cost
Concrete consumes minimum materials, energy and other resources for construction, and requires little to no maintenance throughout its service life.
- Safety and reliability
Concrete is less susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles, is easier to see at night, ensures shorter vehicle stopping distances in bad weather and requires fewer work zones over the life of the pavement.
- Fewer traffic disruptions
Concrete does not require lengthy lane closures, with roads able to reopen within as little as six hours.
RELATED INFORMATION
Read More About Sustainable Pavements, Click Here
Learn more about the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub, Click Here