Layered architectural pervious concrete

Abstract

A layered architectural water pervious concrete is provided. The concrete assembly includes a first layer of water pervious concrete preferably having 15%-25% void space capable of channeling water to the ground and underlying water table. Poured upon the pervious concrete layer, is a non-pervious concrete layer. Joints are formed through the non-pervious concrete layer, which preferably penetrates into the pervious concrete layer at least ¼ inch. Water flows from the top surface of the concrete assembly through the joints and into the porous concrete layer for distribution to the ground below.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 739,201 filed on Dec. 19, 2012.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to concrete, and more particularly to water permeable concrete systems.[0003]Concrete is extensively utilized as a building material for industrial, commercial and residential applications. Due to its durability, wear resistance and cost economy, concrete has gained widespread use in walked upon and driven upon applications. Part of the problem when constructing aesthetically pleasing surfaces is that current design and engineering methods require the use of integrated surface drain systems to capture and channel away excess water, rain and run-off into drainage systems. However, they are visually detracting from the overall finish surfaces being placed and take-away from the natural look of some of the concrete or simulated natural materials on...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a new way of making concrete structures that are stronger and safer. This is done by adding reinforcement materials like wire mesh or rebar to the concrete layer. This new method also makes the concrete more environmentally sensitive and visually appealing. Overall, the patent aims to provide a better alternative to current concrete systems that use surface area drains.

Problems solved by technology

Part of the problem when constructing aesthetically pleasing surfaces is that current design and engineering methods require the use of integrated surface drain systems to capture and channel away excess water, rain and run-off into drainage systems.

However, they are visually detracting from the overall finish surfaces being placed and take-away from the natural look of some of the concrete or simulated natural materials one may be re-creating in concrete.

Unfortunately, pervious concrete suffers from several disadvantages.

Most notable is that the lower density results in significantly lower strength.

Where higher traffic and durability is a concern, pervious concrete is typically not acceptable.

Due to these disadvantages, pervious concrete has faced difficulties in its adoption in the United States.

However, the structure is expensive and more difficult to build than traditional concrete structures.

Unfortunately, these layers of water permeable concrete lack the strength of conventional concrete.

Unfortunately, the impervious concrete layers lack the strength of conventional concrete.

Images