Specialty chemicals company LANXESS is pushing the boundaries of sustainable construction with its calcium sulfate binder, CAB 30, now officially recognized for its low emissions and building biology safety.
The binder has received Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) from the Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU, Institute for Construction and Environment), confirming its low carbon footprint both as a binder and in conventional calcium sulfate screeds.
“This confirms the low carbon footprint of both the binder and the conventional calcium sulfate screed produced from it. It also meets the requirements for volatile organic compounds (VOC) and is safe in terms of building biology. It is therefore permitted to carry the eco-label,” LANXESS stated.
Independent emission tests show that CAB 30 meets the stringent requirements of the Committee for Health Assessment of Building Products (AgBB). Additional certifications include compliance with Belgian VOC regulations and France’s “Emissions dans l’air intérieur A+” seal of approval for very low indoor air emissions, even when used with additives such as Mebonit pro or Mebofix pro.
When combined with Mebofix pro, LANXESS’s drying accelerator, calcium sulfate screeds based on CAB 30 offer faster drying, less water usage, and higher strength.
“The additive enables the screed mortar to be mixed with considerable less water without affecting the usual consistency. On the contrary: a lower water content makes the screed more robust and improves its compressive, flexural and surface strength,” the company explained. This translates into resource savings, faster construction, and a smaller emissions footprint on site.
EPDs Drive Sustainable Construction
As the construction industry increasingly balances sustainability and efficiency, EPDs provide an independent, scientific assessment of building materials.
“EPDs are internationally recognized as a key tool for ecological assessment and ensure transparency and comparability of construction products. They also serve as an important data basis for certification systems in the field of sustainable construction. Furthermore, EPDs strengthen the market position of manufacturers and are often a prerequisite for participating in public tenders or subsidy programs,” LANXESS said.
