Ramon Skåne And Hendrik Gildenhuys: Pioneers In Collie’s Sustainability Movement With “Colliecrete”

Find the full article and images referenced from the ABC by Kate Stephens.

Appearing on the ABC, Ramon Skåne and Hendrik Gildenhuys, are spearheading an eco-friendly concrete initiative. Embracing innovation and environmental responsibility, the Reformix directors have invented a pioneering concrete solution named 'Colliecrete', aiming to transform Collie by-products into commercial concrete.

Reference: “Every day about 600 tonnes of fly ash is trucked from the power station and buried. (ABC South West: Kate Stephens)"

Rising from Coal Ashes: A Greener Concrete Solution 🌏🏗️

Collie, a town historically tied to coal mining, is experiencing a transformative shift. Colliecrete uses fly ash, a by-product of coal-fired power stations, as its primary ingredient. "Colliecrete concrete can use up to 80 to 90 per cent of recycled material as its cement component," stated Ramon Skåne.

The innovation's potential is not only in repurposing waste materials but also in drastically reducing carbon emissions. Compared to standard concrete, Colliecrete has the capacity to slash emissions by up to 80 per cent.

Environmental Impact and Job Creation 💼💡

Concrete, while a vital construction material, is a substantial source of greenhouse gas emissions. Colliecrete's promise lies in its capability to substantially minimize emissions by utilizing a cement-making process achievable at room temperature. This breakthrough holds significant promise in mitigating environmental harm caused by traditional concrete production methods.

Moreover, Reformix's initiative isn't just environmentally conscious; it's a catalyst for job creation in Collie. By harnessing waste products from local sources and converting them into a valuable resource, Colliecrete could potentially generate between 30 to 80 jobs, boosting the town's economy and sustainability efforts with support from the local government and local industry. “If we can use fly ash and lock it up into useful products, then it can only benefit the community going forward," said Bluewaters Power Station Steve Deonck said.

Steve Deonck from Bluewaters Power Station holding a sample of geopolymer concrete made from Collie fly ash.

Building a Sustainable Future in Collie 🌿

The team is already scaling up its concrete pours to test larger blocks, positioning Colliecrete as a versatile and feasible substitute for conventional concrete. "It could be used for anything that concrete can be used for right now," added Ramon. Reformix's pursuit of sustainable building materials aligns with Collie's evolution towards greener industries. By transforming waste into a valuable resource, Reformix is playing a pivotal role in the town's sustainable journey. Colliecrete isn't just a concrete innovation; it's a testament to Reformix's commitment to creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. “The potential is limited really by our imagination” said Collie Shire president Sarah Stanley.

Ramon Skane and Hendrik Gildenhuys, co-founders of the Colliecrete Project and Reformix, holding samples of geopolymer concrete made from industry by-products sourced from the Collie region.