Innovation in concrete

Innovation timeline 1945-present

The timeline below gives a good impression of MBI's innovations. This has accelerated in recent years, as all developments are accelerating. Our “ideas nursery” is also well stocked for 2018 and beyond. Watch the video for an overview of all innovations over the years!

MBI's CemSaver®

A sustainable concrete stone due to reduction of cement

CemSaver from MBI
By using Mecalithe in its CemSaver concept, MBI can use 30 percent less cement in its concrete bricks. This leads to a CO2 reduction of up to 35% in the entire concrete chain. CamSaver contains various binders. Thanks to the additive Mecalithe, a new Dutch invention, the adhesive power of cement is increased.

‘We save 30% cement and use it in combination with other sustainable binder an additives.’ An additional advantage is that Mecalithe better immobilises the substances in the concrete, solves problems with too much water in raw materials and reduces the lime bloom in stones.

CO2 reduction is the most important factor for the environment. This invention can be an important contribution to the fight against global warming and climate change which is on everyone’s mind. This is good news and a big step forward.
CamSaver is part of our sustainable concrete brick: Duraton

Duraton® – the sustainable concrete stone

With Duraton, the entire sustainability process of MBI comes together in one product. It starts with the sustainable and wear-resistant top layer, which also makes it possible to use alternative raw materials in the bottom layer. The stone consist for a great part of these alternative materials and 30% less cement. The latter is possible through the use of CemSaver in the concept.

Stones and tiles with colorfast top layer

GeoSteen®

At the base is an extremely strong concrete base made of recycled materials. MBI is the inventor of concrete clinkers with a high-quality surface consisting of colorfast, natural materials. This started with GeoColor, from which millions of bricks have since been made. In recent years MBI has taken the top layer to a higher level of quality and density. Also, many new stone varieties have been introduced in the market segments: Infra, Garden and Construction.

MBI now uses more than sixty types of crushed natural stone from eight European countries. These concrete clinkers with a high-quality top layer have become a separate category with their own unique advantages. For example, larger formats than brick, better colorfastness than traditional concrete brick and better functional properties than natural stone. The collective name for this contemporary and innovative product group of MBI is GeoSteen®.

The New Rembrandt

GeoProArte®

GeoProArte® is an innovative product that combines ceramic designs with the robustness of concrete. This system offers a realistic look of wood, natural stone or decorative patterns, thanks to advanced manufacturing and design techniques. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications, GeoProArte® offers durable and aesthetic solutions for modern paving.