Lafarge’s research is closely linked to the needs and specifications of the markets where the Group operates. Lafarge has put into place an international R&D network, which includes a Research Center near Lyons (France) and Technical centers and laboratories around the world for the development and industrialization of solutions at local level.
The Lafarge Research Center: innovation in motion |
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The
Lafarge Research Center (LCR) gathers 250 researchers. "It brings together, on a single
site, all of the scientific experts who are needed to master materials:
chemists, physicists, powder specialists, rheologists, etc.", as Gilles Chanvillard, Materials & Modeling Scientific
Director explains. With today's sophisticated technology, Lafarge researchers can study the structure of materials down to the nano-scale, in other words, at an infinitely small scale. This has given them a greater understanding of the mechanisms which determine their mechanical strength, durability etc. allowing them to develop better-structured products with considerably improved properties. |
The magic of fluid concreteSuperplasticizers developed by Lafarge researchers make it possible to enhance the fluidity of concrete without adding water. Consequently, the concrete remains fluid for over 2 hours and is easier to use, more resistant and longer lasting. More resistant concreteLafarge researchers have developed a technique known as granular stacking, a process which fluidifies concrete, which is more compact when it sets. As the smaller pores can better resist weathering influences, such as water, air and CO2, granular packing makes it possible to increase the mechanical strength and durability of concrete. |
Product development to meet local market requirements |
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Map of Lafarge cement Technical centers 
Lab dedicated to "construction development" in Chongqing (China) |
The Research
Center works closely with
Technical centers, development laboratories and with different Group countries.
Lafarge also has a number of concrete development
laboratories, which work in close partnership with the Lafarge Research
Center to carry out
testing to adapt new products to local market conditions. |
