Using the combination of chemistry, high-tech equipment, concrete expertise, and graphics technology, Intaglio Composites has developed a process which allows an image to be permanently embedded into the surface of structural concrete.

Intaglio Composites | Interfacial [03] | Peter Ernst, Simsbury, CT

This particular application benefits from a high performance self consolidating concrete (SCC) to create a higher strength, denser, lower permeability concrete. Intaglio Composites also provides an unlimited range of pigments and additional pozzolanic materials to produce a high quality "fair finish" which achieves the greatest contrast between the form or smooth surface and the etched impressions in the concrete.

Panels are currently available in sizes up to 3' x 3' with larger sizes becoming available soon. Panel thickness can range from 1.5" up to 12" depending on the application. Intaglio Composites has been testing "textile concrete" for applications requiring panels as thin as 3/8" such as floor or wall tiles.

Intaglio Composites recommends the use of high performance fully penetrating siloxanes for maximum weathering and protection, although nothing is required. Horizontal applications require a high performance sealer to reduce wearing of the image.
[Excerpted from the Intaglio Composites website.]

Blaine Brownell's Product of the Week archive (Transmaterial) is maintained at www.transstudio.com