Following a series of rigorous production trials at its Cadeby plant, the manufacturer has demonstrated that graphene-enhanced formulations can be seamlessly integrated into existing, high-volume manufacturing processes.
The latest phase of the programme builds upon an initial run in January, during which FP McCann produced a batch of 2,500 graphene-enhanced roof tiles.
This early trial utilised material supplied through Breedon and First Graphene, proving the concept on a live production line without requiring any modifications to standard manufacturing methods.
Subsequent trials have confirmed that this success can be replicated at scale under normal factory conditions while maintaining product quality that meets stringent production requirements.
Through extensive laboratory optimisation and these full-scale trials, FP McCann has identified a formulation that is effectively factory-ready.
A selection of the newly produced tiles is currently being installed on the new Cadeby office building. This live application allows the team to monitor long-term, in-situ performance alongside ongoing production and laboratory assessments.
Dr Jacek Kwasny, Lead R&D Engineer – Sustainable Materials at FP McCann said: “The success of these trials reflects the power of collaboration across the supply chain.
“Working with First Graphene and the National Composites Centre, we’ve moved graphene-enhanced concrete from the laboratory into a real manufacturing environment. The fact that we can achieve a 14% reduction in embodied carbon while maintaining our quality standards is genuinely exciting.”
While final durability and leaching assessments are still underway, the focus now shifts to transitioning the preferred formulation into routine commercial production.
