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Concrete & Masonry

From decorative to structural, this month’s roundup represents the state of the art and technology involved in such innovative materials and processes as versatile steel-frame formworks, light-transmitting concrete panels, special flooring finishes, and veneer cladding systems. — Linda C. Lentz

Sheer dichotomy
Defying all previous assumptions, TranslucentConcrete by Andreas Bittis for the German manufacturer Florack is a high-density product that can be fabricated in up to 48" x 79" panels at about ¾" thick. (Other versions of this material are available in smaller 24" x 48" sheets.) A combination of optical fibers (5 percent) and fine concrete, this light-transmitting material maintains the structural integrity of the concrete. Florack, Heinsberg, Germany. www.andreasbittis.de

[Reader Service: April 2008 #214]

Secure hold
Engineered to meet the new stringent International Building Code (IBC) requirement of strength, the Power-Stud+SD2 carbon-steel bolt is a one-piece, fully threaded wedge anchor with a stainless-steel clip designed for concrete and other masonry applications. Available in a full range of lengths and diameters, this bolt is said to have significantly more holding power than the company’s previous version of this product. Power Fasteners, Brewster, N.Y. www.powers.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #215]

LEED-ing the way
A patented dry method of polished concrete-floor or surface restoration, the VOC-free FGS PermaShine System gains points for the LEED certification of a building through the LEED for New Renovations Version 2.2 Green Building Rating System. Besides reducing waste and energy by refurbishing a preexisting surface, the system extracts and retains dust during the grinding process. L&M Construction Chemicals, Omaha, Neb. www.fgs-permashine.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #216]

Rock-solid veneer
Appropriate for numerous residential and commercial projects, interior and exterior, Realstone Systems natural stone veneer panels are fabricated in hand-selected, split slate, quartz, limestone, and sandstone. Available in five profiles and shades, such as the new Accent Stone (top left), each modular panel measures 6" by 24" and weighs between 8 and 14.5 pounds. Configurations include corner pieces (bottom left), cut with fingered ends, and precut outlet panels. Realstone Systems, Troy, Mich. www.realstonesystems.com

[Reader Service: April 2008 #217]