What is Nanogence?
Nanogence is shaking up the construction world with greener, stronger, and smarter materials. Based in Switzerland, with subsidiaries and production hubs in the US and India, this company is on a mission to revolutionize how building materials are made and used. Their secret? A nano-scale catalyst that interacts with individual cement particles, transforming the chemistry of cement and cementitious materials in a way that’s simple but game-changing. This isn’t just another concrete admixture—it’s a fundamental shift that boosts strength, durability, and sustainability all at once.
Main Benefits of Nanogence’s Technology
Here’s what makes Nanogence stand out:
- Reduces construction costs by up to 20%
- Increases cement binding efficiency by up to 30%
- Enhances Supplementary Cementitious Material reaction efficiency by up to 30%
- Extends the cement particle hydration phase, improving material performance
- Significantly cuts carbon emissions associated with cement production
- Seamlessly integrates into existing production processes without disrupting supply chains
Addressing Industry Challenges
The cement and concrete industry faces some serious hurdles. Labor shortages, soaring costs, and strict CO₂ regulations make decarbonization a tough nut to crack—especially since plants have long lifespans and the market for low-carbon cement moves slowly. Plus, concrete structures have to withstand harsh conditions, demanding materials that are not just strong but also durable and easy to maintain. On top of that, construction costs have been climbing faster than incomes, making affordable, high-performance building solutions more crucial than ever.
Innovation with Real-World Impact
Nanogence’s technology isn’t just theoretical—it’s practical and proven. Born from research at EPFL, the company’s catalyst strengthens cementitious systems from within, improving performance while slashing costs and emissions. This approach transforms the chemistry of building materials, extending the hydration phase of cement particles, which means stronger, longer-lasting concrete with a smaller carbon footprint. It’s a fresh take on construction chemistry that’s already making waves.
Scalability and Practicality
One of the coolest things about Nanogence’s solution? It’s designed to fit right into existing production lines without causing headaches. This smooth integration means manufacturers can adopt the technology quickly and efficiently, speeding up the transition to more sustainable building practices. No need to overhaul supply chains or disrupt operations—just a smart upgrade that delivers big benefits.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
Funding and Recognition
Nanogence’s innovation has caught some serious attention. The company secured funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101009387. Plus, it was honored as the 2023 NRMCA Concrete Innovations Award Winner—proof that their approach is not just promising but already recognized as a leader in concrete technology innovation.
