Hycrete

About Hycrete

Hycrete operates in the specialty chemicals sector, providing advanced solutions for concrete waterproofing and corrosion protection. The company was established in 2002 by David Rosenberg, who leveraged his family's three-decade legacy in specialty chemical invention and manufacturing. Rosenberg, a Columbia Business School graduate with a background in finance, was inspired by his grandfather, an inventor who contributed to NASA projects like solid rocket fuel and the Apollo heat shield. This familial exposure to chemical innovation, combined with Rosenberg’s business acumen, laid the groundwork for Hycrete. The company's technology was originally invented by Rosenberg's grandfather about twelve years prior to the company's formal launch.

The core of Hycrete's business is a chemical admixture that is added to concrete during the mixing process. This liquid polymer, once in the concrete, polymerizes and becomes hydrophobic, making the concrete itself virtually non-porous and resistant to water absorption. The technology works by having a water-based molecule with a long hydrocarbon chain attached, which links to metallic ions in the cement and behaves like an oil to repel water. This process not only waterproofs the concrete from within but also forms a protective layer on steel reinforcements, significantly inhibiting corrosion. This dual-action protection is a key differentiator. The company's business model involves selling these admixtures directly to concrete producers and contractors. By integrating the waterproofing directly into the concrete, Hycrete eliminates the need for external waterproofing membranes, which are often prone to failure and can cause costly delays and legal disputes. This simplification of the construction process can reduce costs by 20-30% and shorten project timelines.

Hycrete offers a range of products tailored for different applications. Its flagship products include Hycrete Endure WP for integral waterproofing and Hycrete Endure CP for corrosion protection. The company also offers a comprehensive service program called Hycrete360, which provides expert guidance throughout the construction project, from design and mix reviews to on-site support and crack remediation, all backed by a performance warranty. The technology is Cradle to Cradle certified, highlighting its environmental benefits, such as making concrete easier to recycle and eliminating petroleum-based membranes. Clients include general contractors and builders working on a variety of structures, from foundations, slabs, and parking garages to tunnels and water tanks. Notable projects have included the Nintendo headquarters and buildings for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.