First Graphene has announced that a new waterproofing additive containing PureGRAPH® has been released to the South African cement and concrete market.
Initial orders for graphene enhanced waterproofing additives, containing the Company’s PureGRAPH® product, have been received by South African high performance construction chemicals producer Glade Chemicals Manufacturers CC. Glade is steadily supplying the graphene-enhanced waterproofing additive named KR2-Tech Dry commercially into the South African construction sector following trials conducted in 2024-25.
The trials in South Africa reportedly confirmed PureGRAPH®-enhanced additives deliver a step-change in the durability performance of ready-mix concrete, reducing secondary (long-term) rate water absorption by more than 17.4% and 48% at 28 and 400 days of curing respectively, compared to the control mixture.
Furthermore, PureGRAPH®-enhanced additives reduced the rate of oxygen penetration by 19.2% and 18.6% respectively after 28 and 400 days of curing compared to the control mixture.
First Graphene Managing Director and CEO, Michael Bell, said: “The Company’s entrance into the South African construction materials market represents the rising prominence of our PureGRAPH® product and the range of benefits it provides to the global cement and concrete industry. Initial orders secured by Glade Chemical Manufacturers delivers both a boost to our bottom line and new opportunities to expand our presence into an emerging market. Awareness of graphene’s ability to batch longer lasting ready-mix concrete by delivering an end product with enhanced waterproofing and barrier properties to protect reinforced concrete structures is growing. First Graphene is now recouping commercial reward for collaboratively testing a high-quality and high-performing material during trials and converting market opportunities.”
