Can you imagine how difficult it is for a blind person to navigate their way through a busy city when they have adapted to work primarily off of sound? The same goes for Whales, Dolphins, and other creatures in the ocean who require sound to locate, connect and coordinate for survival. As a society, we need to be actively reducing marine pollution and sonic stress.
Due to the density of the water molecules, sound travels 4-5 times faster below the surface. This is the equivalent of everyone in a mile radius yelling, or at least the disappearance of what we would term nondisruptive “white noise”. Like general conversation at a rock concert, it can become extremely futile. While they may be able to temporarily bear the burden, they may be forced to travel or move due to their prey relocating. In extreme cases, the intense sound can cause shock, permanent damage, or even an embolism, similar to a diver getting the “Bends”.
Some of the key sounds we see below the surface would be the drone of boat engines, sonic wash from the props, or hammer of undersea drilling or prep work.
What if we could greatly reduce the impact of some of the man-made sounds and provide a better way to coexist?!
Answers for Some of these Challenges
BlueGold Labs have developed a nano-ceramic marine line of over 170 products and variations, ‘Tecmari – Technical Marine Coatings’ that are beguine, non-toxic, non-leaching, antifouling, and can help protect the ocean environment. Tecmari coatings help keep the ocean clean and reduce marine sound transmission* by up to 68%. These coatings help by reducing marine pollution without harming our friends below the surface.
This symbiotic relationship also gives space-age efficiency, and minimizes routine maintenance, while the coatings’ hydrophobic properties improve handling and overall performance while reducing sound. Our CeramaTherm thin-film extreme-insulation applied at the thickness of paint, is fully waterproof and offers sound deadening up to 68%. Our Tecmari line offers the best Non-Toxic solutions, to a market filled with toxic ablative coatings which should have been banned long ago. We have two types of antifoul prop coatings that help reduce cavitation and improve prop performance. These coatings also help to reduce the noise generated by the props by changing the surface dynamics.
If you are worried about a fire on your boat, our NeverBlaze fireproof coatings stop a fire in its tracks. NeverBlaze is completely comfortable operating in temps up to 3,600°F without smoke or fumes being released.
Have a peek at our site to see how we can best meet your needs. If you have a hurdle to clear, we very likely have at least one solution!
*Below are some fantastic links on this subject you may appreciate.
Sailing can be one of the most peaceful things a person can do in their downtime, as long as the weather behaves. In inclement weather, it can be considered the equivalent of running around a large field with a lightning rod in hand. This is because nearly all currently produced masts have a huge potential of being struck by what is termed “Super bolts” AKA “Thunderstruck.” This super bolt phenomenon seems to be intensified by the water’s saline concentration, making the strikes even more intense. Having friends that have been personally hit three times…yes three… got our attention. We felt we could significantly improve a variety of safety aspects.
Tubes of Volcanic Rock
Our solution is simple (for us): construct the mast with something non-conductive. Basalt is the most fantastic material you have likely never heard of. A by-product of volcanic action, Basalt rock (magma) is extruded to form Basalt fibers. These fibers are then woven to create new materials. Basalt is 2-3 times as strong as steel, yet ~20% the weight. Masts made from our Technical Marine BasaltTM offer a robust, lightweight, non-conductive, UV stable, long-term solution. Basalt products do not rust or corrode and cost a fraction of the price of Kevlar or Carbon Fiber. Kevlar and carbon fiber quickly degrade in the daylight and moisture, while Basalt will outlive us all. This hyper-tech solution will not shatter on impact like many other options available in the market.
Green Sailing
Our special Technical Marine BasaltTM offers a Green solution. We are working to create full sails, masts, and yacht hulls with this amazing natural upcycled rock – who knew?! As our friends say, we make boats rock. We coat our hulls with our non-ablative race coatings (read our earlier blogs). Basalt-made products can also be upcycled when their intended use is complete, unlike their fiberglass counterpart.
Our focus remains on improving performance and safety while offering green solutions. With issues such as hulls collecting barnacles that affect handling and involve never-ending and ongoing maintenance. Similarly, lightning strikes and, ultimately fire on board have remained ongoing concerns for the avid sailor. BlueGold Labs is working hard to address each with environmentally friendly solutions. Our Tecmari, Canadian Basalt, and the NeverBlaze product lines contain over 300 product variations all targeted at improving performance.
Technical Marine BasaltTM is the Rock Solid Foundation for the Future of Boating – stay tuned!
Years ago, the power of the wind was harnessed via a “Windmill.” In turn, this was used to propel a millstone and turn wheat and grains into flour. With the evolution of wind technologies, the world got smarter.
Flash forward to the present day. This same technology is advancing, creating more efficient towers. These are linked with the ability to pivot and capture subtle airflow that may not even be noticeable on the ground. In addition, space-age materials are being used, further advancing the cause, each with its intrinsic strengths and weaknesses. As towers are now placed on hilltops or in vast open spaces, serviceability and longevity become huge factors. Additionally, the infrastructure required to harness the generated power also has large maintenance requirements.
Improving Performace while Reducing Maintenance
Our team has been in the Aerospace sector for many years. We have created a coating that has baffled some of the best engineers in the business as it defies physics. We have managed to provide a coating used on supersonic jets that Increases lift by 30% and Reduces drag by 1%. This nano ceramic coating also fills in nano porosity in the wing, body, and nose cone. This coating eliminates vortices to help the plane slice through the air with improved handling. This coating’s unique chemistry causes it to covalently bond to the surface at application time, becoming the new surface. Unlike paint, this coating is not removable except by extreme abrasion. It is a permanent surface that protects the subsurface from the elements while also improving efficiency.
BlueGold Labs is working to bring this technology into the field, so we can once again leap light years ahead. What if you could see a 20% increase in your overall turbine efficiency and have a way to protect your incredible investment?
Discover TECMARI – Technical Marine Coatings, the solution to environmentally safe coatings with no equal. In the 1930s, an industrial engineer named Allen F.Morgensterncoined “work smarter, not harder.” We believe our Tecmari coatings enable you to do precisely this!
Tecmari coatings are NOT paint. They will not peel or chip off. Instead, Tecmari coatings covalently bond with the substrate, becoming a new surface. This new surface is inert and will not leech into the environment. Additionally, these environmentally safe coatings can be supplied with an antimicrobial finish if so desired. In other words, once you have applied our coatings, you do not have to do this again, maybe ever. And the environment will benefit over the remaining life of your vessel. Work smarter, not harder!
Color Coatings or Clear, for Antifouling or Infrastructure
Our premier slick coating, TZ600AM, comes in 40 colors or clear and goes on five mils thick. This coating is highly durable. If you are beaching the boat often or using it in water containing abrasive elements, it will withstand more abuse. Some choose to overcoat with the 3 to 5 micron thin TL212AM Super Slick Nano Ceramic clear coatto act as a sacrificial coating. This approach improves the hydrophobic properties. There is no problem overcoating any slick product with another as long as TX520HT Clear Nano Ceramic Primer is used first. This ensures proper bonding.
We have two primary environmentally safe non-leaching antifouling coatings, TZ600AM and TL212AM.Each is a good choice. TZ600AM cures in only four hours, whereas TL212AMrequires a minimum cure time of 5 days at 75°F before immersion. TL212AM will not cure underwater. To ensure a satisfactory application it is advisable to have a professional applicator spray on the coating. We will be available to consult with your chosen applicator to ensure proper application.
Preparation Is Key!
The key to success when applying our environmentally safe coatings is careful surface preparation before application. This will avoid trapping contaminants under the coating. Use Renew Easy Clean and Prep TX506 to remove paint and gel-coat oxidization. The TX300D HygieniCoat Deep Cleaneris highly recommended for final surface prep and cleaning. When applied over a properly prepared Gel-coat, both products are self-priming. To start with, clean as usual and then use the TX300D to pull more contaminants out of the porosity of the substrate. This technique is the best preparation method to successfully bond a nano-ceramic coating to a hard surface.
The cured coating can only be affected by abrasion. However, should damage become evident, you can repair the affected area by first using TX520HT Clear Nano Ceramic Primer and then recoating.
These coatings are extensively used in the military and aerospace and have been for decades.
In Japan, TZ600AM coatings were utilized against an incredibly aggressive mollusk; the result: was zero growth.
In Germany, TZ600AM was applied to a fleet of patrol boats; the result was zero growth and 4 to 6 knots higher hull speed.
Enjoy an increased performance from your hull, and remember: Greater hull efficiency also derives fuel savings, so the slick coating pays for itself! And if you like this idea, consider TL212AM, a super-slick layer. This super-slick coating will achieve a similar durable result with even better hull efficiency.
Safety First
A nano-ceramic safety coating for the deck TL214is a clear micron fine textured surface with “Wet Grip”. This is a non-slip feature that gets grippier when wet, making footing safer. This coating is also antimicrobial, resisting the growth of algae and mold, etc. It goes on best with a roller. Perfect technique is desirable, so it is advisable to use an experienced applicator.
A DIY option is TL169AM, another super slick coating similar to TL212AM but slightly less complicated and is easier to apply and reapply. TL169AM can be used to repair TL212AMif damaged. It is excellent to use on the windshield, acrylics, or to protect metal surfaces. It fills up the porosity of the substrate, so the surface becomes hydrophobic and smooth to the touch.
With Tecmari Marine Coatings, you can look forward to enjoying your boat for many years with less maintenance and no ill effect on the environment from maintaining your vessel. Enjoy more time on the water with TECMARI – Technical Marine Coatings. ting
A while back I was approached by a friend who is active in the oil and gas industry to help solve one of his ongoing issues. While pumping fly ash, coming directly out of the processing chamber, they were experiencing incredible wear to all the pump contact surfaces due to intense heat and its highly acidic base. Once the wear was substantial enough, it rendered the pump ineffective, causing the entire production process to halt until needed repairs took place. The downtime costs to them were astounding, so they were in desperate need of a solution.
BlueGold Labs benefits from access to solutions for Aerospace to deal with incredible heat and adverse conditions. We have formulations designed for one problem that are leveraged to fix others. As we control the chemistry, we can tweak the components to match the problem. For example, we created a custom formulation for a hydroelectric dam that pumped abrasive combinations of water/wood/rock/sand/minerals all day, every day. The wear-and-tear was horrendous. We formulated a high-wear ceramic coating using some of our high-wear chemistry. This unique formulation has far exceeded their expectations and all but eliminated their downtime for scheduled maintenance.
If you are suffering a similar fate affecting your business and no one seems to be able to solve the problem, please send us a message. There is an excellent chance WE have YOUR solution, which can be perfectly tailored to your specific needs.
If your family is anything like mine, they cannot wait to get on the water each year. Due to our northern locale with our 5-month boating season, there is always the mad rush in spring to get the boats maintained and prepped for the season.
Of course, in our case, this means that EVERYONE is doing this simultaneously to get a jump on the season, so even the most basic service can potentially take months to schedule.
If you are lucky enough to spend your days in California, Hawaii, Florida, or the Caribbean, you can pretty much boat year-round… but there is an excellent chance that your boat won’t even reach planning speed due to heavy barnacle and biofilm buildup. You have to schedule to haul it out every 6-9 months to clean and resurface your hull, then apply fresh bottom paint. This chore is a yearly ritual of boat ownership…
UNTIL NOW!
What if you could increase the value of your boat, reduce your maintenance costs, and help restore the marine environment?
Protect your investment and every surface on your boat with UV-resistant Tecmari nano ceramic coatings, keeping it looking and performing like new year-round.
Avoid having to pull out your boat for costly resurfacing every few months.
Enjoy huge fuel and maintenance savings, by keeping your boat operating in its optimal zone with Tecmari naturally hydrophobic coatings, reducing hull drag.
Create a safer non-slip surface on board to can help mitigate common accidents caused by slipping.
Offer superior fire protection for the hull, interior and engine bay by using ‘NeverBlaze Fireproof Coating’?
Enhance the performance of your standard prop, while protecting it against wear, and barnacle build up by using Tecmari Prop Coating. Help avoid the transfer of parasitic plants and muscles as they are inhibited from attaching to your treated hull, leg or engine using Tecmari color coatings.
Help maintain all your surfaces for many years. Add race grade coatings to everything from the boat hull, to sails and rigging, to further enhance each aspect and get you that much closer to a podium finish.
Ultimately, maximize your time and enjoyment on the water, cut your costs, minimize your headaches… while you do your part for the environment through the use of Tecmari non-leaching, non-toxic antifoul bottom coatings to protect marine life and reefs.
Over the last several decades, our lakes and oceans have had to contend with increased garbage and pollution, chemical and oil spills, natural disasters, and changes related to climate shift. Glass, Metal, and Plastics litter the shore. These slowly are ground into micro particulates, becoming absorbed by the ecosystem and eventually by us. This disrespect for the environment has to change and is something together we know we can help improve.
After a recent trip to South America with the entire family, I was so excited to get a chance to head out snorkeling. My excitement soon faded. Most of the once vibrant reef appeared dead, covered in grey soot, with the odd fish or school of barracuda nearby. Beyond my disgust at the situation, my immediate thoughts were: Where were the beautiful colors we were so used to? What is causing them to disappear?
Sadly, I already knew the likely answer.
Where’s the coral?
Here at BlueGold Labs, we unified with a resolve to tackle a very blatant polluter: the bio toxic Ablative and Hard Bottom coatings used on the vast majority of boats. These toxic coatings are a direct cause of devastation I witnessed. Thankfully they are fast being made illegal to use in most places around the world. But, until now, there hasn’t been a suitable replacement for the problem readily commercially available.
Clean Boat Bottom, But at a Tremendous Cost
When solving a problem, it is best to understand the source: For as long as man has been at sea, boat bottoms have been covered by marine life, mollusks, and seaweeds attach and grow. These cause hull drag, reducing performance and fuel economy. The boat essentially becomes weighed down, heavy, unusable, dangerous, and even sink if not treated.
In the old days’ pitch and tar were used when coating the bottom of the boat hull. These were replaced by toxic“Hard Bottom” or “Ablative Bottom” coatings.
1). The “Hard Bottom” is typically a modified, very durable epoxy coating. These coatings are loaded with pesticides (usually copper-based) that are, by design, exposed to the outer paint surface. These toxic coatings become less potent at combating marine growth as time goes by. If a boat is removed from the water and trailered, within just 72 hours, oxidation causes the “Hard Bottom” coating to become ineffective. The surfaces need to be re-treated, adding weight to the boat, continuing the toxic cycle.
2). The “Ablative Bottom” coats are softer and wear off at a more controlled rate. The coating slowly wears away as water moves over the boat’s bottom, revealing a new “fresh” looking surface (like the one in the image). Unfortunately, each time this surface is “refreshed,” the active toxic coating is exposed. This type of coating is considered preferable for the boat owner as it lasts longer. However, this type of coating is a disaster for the environment as the toxic ablative material pollutes like plastics, killing the marine environment.
Almost 1,300,000 boats are produced in North America alone YEARLY, and countless more “refreshed”. There is no doubt that the current leaching ablative coatings are having a devastating impact on our way of life. The killing of sea fauna poisoning of shellfish, crustaceans, fish, and reefs is only worsening.
Here at BlueGold Labs, we decided to do something about this. A number of years in the making, our chemists have developed and proven a naturally green solution. Over time, this core approach has evolved to a proprietary line of safe coatings suitable for all surfaces. Today it is used by the world’s military, navy, and coast guards. We have now reassigned and opened the products up for manufacturers and professionals, under the brand Tecmari.
Our Non-Toxic Bottom Coating Solution
The entire line of eco/ocean safe Tecmari Technical Maine Coatings does not add to the current destructive trend. These are nano-ceramic, super-slick bottom coatings that are non-toxic. They are non-leaching and do not harm the environment. They prevent marine growth while improving overall safety and performance. One application is all you need to seal and protect for years ahead.
Our UV-resistant Tecmari TZ600 nano-ceramic coatings are available in 40 beautiful colors and made in the USA. The paint quality is gorgeous, producing a beautiful, durable porous-free surface. In addition, this coating is naturally hydrophobic, repelling water, reducing drag, increasing hull speed, and vastly improving performance. These coatings are used for multiple applications from buildings to marine structures and offshore rigs. In addition, they are super effective when used for boat hulls, all the way up to the vast mega yachts.
They are suitable for all surface types, fiberglass, gel coats, wood, steel, aluminum, etc. They work by covalently bonding to the surface, filling in the nano porosities, effectively creating a new super-slick surface nothing can permanently attach to. If the boat is at rest, there will be some apparent attachment of fauna. However, this sloughs off at 3-5 knots as soon as the vessel is underway, revealing the desired clean bottom without all the bio toxic environmental consequences.
To avoid any apparent growth, use the non-toxic, non-leaching antimicrobial formula, the Tecmari TZ600AM nano-ceramic coating. As long as this coating is undamaged, it will continue to inhibit any growth, including seaweeds, mollusks, algae, and help protect from hull stains. This coating saves a fortune and time in maintenance costs while increasing the vessel’s value.
The results are a permanently clean boat bottom with a super slick surface that requires less maintenance. This surface also gives you superior speed and fuel savings. These coatings are part of our Tecmari Technical Marine Coatings line and come in two variations design for Tenders, RIB, RHIB, and Inflatable Bottom surfacesTL200 andTL200AM.
Propellers and Driveshafts
Similarly, we looked at the wear and tear on propellers and driveshafts. Again, we tackled the issue of premature prop wear while also looking at how we could reduce maintenance. The result is a high-performance, uncompromising, durable super-slick finish TZ698AM with or TZ698 without an antimicrobial coating.
The goal of both of these products is to reduce their impact on marine life and improve our waterways. Boatbuilders and manufacturers are catching on and now using our technology, expanding its use. We know these small changes will prove significant to our local waterways and help regrow our marine ecosystems.
To improve awareness, BlueGold Labs has mobilized in this effort with the help of a local university to rebuild the underwater flora and fauna. Together we are helping to reinstate the undersea life that has all but been erased. Hopefully, we can finally see a change from the previous toxic bottom coatings trend, and the positive implementation of non-toxic Tecmari products that are proven to work, providing beautiful long-lasting results.
Working together, we can help save the world’s lakes and oceans, one boat at a time.
As technology progresses, the combination of structural materials and composites is leading to the creation of new feather-light products. The comingling of these enhanced materials not only maintains the strength and structural integrity but the product’s performance can be further improved and often greatly enhanced, with the application of nano-ceramic coatings.
These nano-thin coatings are applied to strengthen and protecting the substrate, providing longevity and capability well beyond the norm. We are often amazed at how something so small can do so much. It is these types of technology transitions we are proud to be at the forefront with, to both use and promote.
Our coatings and sealers are used across a broad range of materials, applications and products, to heat, cool, insulate, provide slip or grip and even protect from chemicals and fire, for everything from buildings to space ships.
Passive coatings can also help protect against biohazards on touchable surfaces. They even help clean and protect the very air we breathe when our specialized antimicrobial coatings are applied to filter media – BlueGold Labs BL181AM HygieniCoat Textile, Fabric and Filter.
Our chemists have developed solutions in use currently for Aerospace and Military where there is no “spare tire” option. They have competed on a world stage against the best of the best and Won!
BlueGold Labs strives to provide Intelligent, Green, Bio-Safe solutions to common everyday issues and works to bring our Whole Earth Science and Technology to you. Let us help you get the Win!
Western North America is on fire again. This fire map tells the story. This blog discusses (1) Air Quality, (2) Fire-Suppressing Nanoceramic Coatings, and (3) the use of better and smarter building systems.
As I write this, there are over 800 forest fires across Canada and 1830 square miles alight or burned in Oregon. 1000’s of homes, businesses, and livelihoods are likely to be lost. Countless wildlife and habitats will be destroyed. This now yearly cycle will remain until …? I believe this tragic pattern has no end in sight. We have friends and family who have lost everything in fires. We’ve heard their stories firsthand and experienced some of their pain.
Photo: Ryan Arnst – Unsplash
With this in mind, we have been speaking with our talented technicians and suppliers. They have recommended a wide variety of solutions. Some are in the developmental stage, while others are very proven, in use, and available NOW. I am going to cover three areas: (1) Air Quality, (2) Fire-Suppressing Nanoceramic Coatings, and (3) the use of better and smarter building systems.
Let’s start with Air Quality for your home
Why breath smokey or toxic air INSIDE your house? This is an easy problem for us to solve. We are Sanuvox distributors and have access to their full line of incredible products. We can ship these items anywhere. These come as standalone and in-line systems. Your local technicians will have no problems installing the inline systems. Three Sanuvox products come to mind, and so does one of ours.
The Sanuvox R MAX is a whole-home unit, designed for homes up to 4000 square feet of heated or cooled space. The Sanuvox R Max represents an evolution in UV for whole-home air treatment. It is a Best-in-class UV Air Purifier and Odor Removal System. The high-efficiency patented design destroys airborne bio-chemical contaminants. In other words: smoke. The Sanuvox SR MAX is similar but designed for homes up to 2000 square feet. Both units are designed to install into and enhance your existing system and greatly improve your air quality. One of these is going to being installed in our house very soon.
For those needing a more portable system, we recommend the Sanuvox P900-GX.
Commercial Air Disinfection Systems
If you need large volume air disinfection and purification, the Sanuvair® S300 VOC & Sanuvair® S1000 VOC SMOKE REMOVAL units are perfect. These systems are ideal for bars, smoking rooms, casinos, game rooms, cannabis smoke shops, and cigar rooms. Beyond these, we have a wide variety of air disinfection & surface sterilization systems we can discuss with you. Contact Us Here.
A number of our staff and friends work in the film and music industries. Sets and sound stages are notoriously difficult to provide sanitized and purified air to. On-set air quality is always a concern. We spent a year researching this and recently released our answer: The AEROSAUR. This is a beast of a sterilization system and is an industry first, providing sterilized air SILENTLY to the workspace.
“An Ounce of Prevention is worth a Pound of Cure”
This is an old expression but so true today. We carry an extensive line of military-tested commercial-grade nanoceramic coatings. These coatings are sprayed or rubbed onto the surfaces they are designed to protect. These work at the nano (microscopic) level. They bond to the surface they are applied to and become part of the surface. They fill in the nano-vortices (the nook & crannies) and provide a smoother surface.
We really like the BL205and BL205AM nanoceramic coatings. The AM version contains strong antimicrobial properties that will inhibit the growth of all kinds of algae and fungus protecting the surface, helping the wood last longer (fire or no fire!). These coatings are designed to be sprayed, wiped, or rubbed into wood surfaces and provide fire retardant capabilities. In simple terms, this coating reduces the chance of the structure catching fire. It binds with the wood fibers, coating and protecting them. It is easy to apply and bonds immediately soaking into the surface. These surfaces require occasional touch-ups, but the first coat provides a remarkable amount of protection. The general advice with this product is to apply it until the materials stop absorbing. Then let it dry and rub it down.
We sell this by the pint, quart, gallon, or larger. To calculate the amount required, you will first need to understand the number of square feet of surface you will be coating and protecting. We can then work with you from there.
Fire Proofing Coatings
Our chief chemist is working on a coating designed for flat surfaces (roof, car firewalls, engine compartments, boat hulls, etc). The product is in the latter stages of testing but is looking really good. A recent test was performed on an aluminum roof, with the coating being just 1/8th” thick. Amazingly, the coated surface withstood a 3600oF heat source on one side of the surface and measured just 180oF on the other. We hope to get this to market later this year and will have videos etc before then.
Build Differently
As a nation, we seem to have maintained the pioneer mentality of building with available resources. As a nation, we continue to follow the same patterns. “Wood is plentiful”. “Wood is cheap”. Well, until the last few years of fire it was. Millions of acres of trees are now cinders. Supplies are tight. It is these same fires that consume our modern-day “log cabin” structures.
The town of Paradise, CA that was burned badly in 2018 is on fire again. New houses are now at risk. Some new homes have already experienced fire three times. This is crazy. Year after year after year we keep rebuilding homes in these forested areas with materials that can not survive. Gutters fill with needles and leaves. These out-of-sight combustible materials ignite, setting fire to sub-framing or shingles. They also get sucked into the soffits and up into the structure, causing the house to burn from the inside out. Similarly, wind-blown fire embers collect on window ledges and door frames. The results are catastrophic.
Albert Einstein’s quote is sadly so appropriate: “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.”
Photo: Dave Hoefler – Unsplash
AlternativesTechnologies
Building materials exist that will survive these types of fires. We have assembled them into almost fireproof, incredibly insulating, breathable non-toxic, AND affordable building panels. These are easy to assemble making the cost of building (or rebuilding) incredibly inexpensive as well as rapid.
Our assembly is simply encapsulated within code-approved framing. In other words, to get different results, build differently.
For example: When we add our basalt volcanic rock fiber mesh to the structural panels and stucco plastered with breathable natural BioLime or super strength Geopolymer cement, the resulting structure will last. This is essentially the stuff they built the Pantheon and those buildings in Rome with. These structures are still standing thousands of years later. Yes…that stuff. You have choices.
We are also reviewing different types of roofing materials that will NOT combust. Ultimately, there is only so much we can do, but we are trying to get sensible and practical solutions to market.
Development and Refinement
We are still working on developing these panels and are building test structures right now. The panels are fire and bug-resistant and have incredible insulation properties. We’ll know soon. We believe this to be an answer and the change in building technology needed for fire-prone areas. Stay tuned. Or contact us and let’s talk.
Our housing, offices, and commercial spaces are all supposed to keep us safe. Yet, the way we build these structures is problematic. We incorporate materials with short life spans that can be toxic or prone to decay or being attacked by bugs or fungi, We build, ignoring a variety of natural materials that can be used to build sustainably. These materials are plentiful and are not toxic to us. They insulate us from hot and cold weather affordably. They do not burn down in fires and do not mold. These natural materials are the better and less expensive alternatives to the materials we use today. Yet, we ignore them, largely out of ignorance. Outdated building codes and limited engineering teaching compound the problem.
Made from hemp and basalt and bio-resins! Follow this link to read a great article on Floating homes
Basalt and Volcanic Ash
Volcanos provide us essential building blocks of Basalt and Ash. Basalt is an igneous rock that forms from the relatively rapid solidification of lava. It is one of the most common types of rock. It has the basic elements for life including carbon, phosphorous, and nitrogen, only requiring water to complete the formula. Basalt is high in silicates, iron, and magnesium. Lava ash comprises minerals and trace elements that are extremely beneficial for the planet. The fertility of some of the world’s richest and most productive farmland is due to the minerals produced by nearby volcanoes.
Uses & Properties
Basalt and volcanic ash have a wide variety of uses including healing the physical body, remediation of toxic waste, nontoxic “enlivened cements”, healing building materials, radiation shielding, and more. The crystalline structures within basalt can be used for communicators and capacitors. The light that emits from these structures is an avenue for many ‘out of the box’ developments – and the microbes within have a world all their own.
Volcanic ash has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-yeast, and overall disinfectant qualities. This type of ash is high in Sulphur, an active ingredient that not only helps the body to resist bacteria but actually destroys it. The ash disinfects the blood, stimulates bile secretion, aids the oxidation reaction in the body, and protects the protoplasm of cells for the synthesis of collagen. Volcanic ash provides a multitude of health and beauty benefits.
The pre-Aztec “Pyramid of the Sun” outside of New Mexico is built from volcanic rock and is highly paramagnetic. We have come a long way with our understanding of how to leverage this wonderful material. Today, basalt fibers spun from basalt rock are used as a fireproof textile in the aerospace and automotive industry and as composites for build such items as tripods. Yes – Basalt is in use in Space!
Reimagined Building Materials
Let’s start by reapplying what our ancestors figured out. Let’s re-start building with advanced materials like Basalt volcanic rock fibers which are an integral component to a sensible, secure building system. These fibers can be made into products like rebars, meshes, fabrics, wall panels, both interior, and exterior. Basalt rock fibers are a key and core ingredient to most of our building material needs. Basalt materials do NOT burn, instead, they insulate. They do NOT mold and are super-strong. Basalt is stronger than steel and yet over 70% lighter and it NEVER corrodes. Basalt does not react to seawater. It does not decay the way traditional cement and steel rebar structures do. For those living in fire, flood, or coastal zones, these Basalt construction materials are amazing. We carry all these materialson this website and are experts in their application!
Basalt performs very well with other building materials. You can use it as a direct and improved replacement for steel, fiberglass, kevlar, and other materials. Mixing natural fibers like hemp with basalt allows a building’s walls to breathe and control moisture naturally. Combing these with Lime-based plasters and stucco you create buildings that breathe and insulate and do not burn or mold. Waste wood fibers can be mixed also into new types of cement that do not create CO2 as regular cement does. This is truly a green building material. Incredibly strong, these types of cement fortified with basalt reinforcements can provide waterproof floating homes as seen in the article above.
Paramagnetics
Basalt does not harbor Electro Magnetic Radiations (EMR). EMR are waves propagating through space carrying radiant energy. Other types of EMR include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Circuit boards, which are subject to EMR – which exist in every electronic device could be fabricated with Basalt. It is a superior insulator and is lighter, stronger, and infinitely recyclable.
Now is the time for the paradigm shift in how we build and with what we build.
We know eating healthily is beneficial to our well-being. We should be aiming to live in healthy buildings too. A paradigm shift is needed. We need to take steps to actively design and build with natural materials that reduce our exposure to toxins and diseases. These same materials can save us from mold, fires, flood damages, hurricanes, and even tornadoes. These smarter building systems will allow us to live more safely and healthily. Taking these steps is not hard to do. If you want to discuss this article, or discuss fixing, repairing, or building with our incredible products, please contact us.
Sometimes a picture is worth 1000 words. We know Google wants 1500 words for blog articles, but this picture says it all. Well, almost…
Rebaris supposed to overlap 40 times the diameter of the rod.
Also, see how little poor concrete was outside these rebars. 2-3 inches is code minimum. If they were deeper inside good concrete and basalt outside near the surface this might have been a different outcome.
If you want to discuss engineering and how we would fix or prevent this from happening, please contact us.
First, we at BlueGold Labs want to express our shock at the recent building collapse in Miami FL. Our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those lost in this tragic incident.
Corrosion, spalling, cracking, failure, and collapse are the results of steel in concrete over time.
Steel and concrete and saltwater do NOT mix. Over time chloride attack penetrates porous concrete and rusts out the steel reinforcements that are critical to holding the excessive loads in a high-rise building.
Structural engineers and builders used to not factor lifespan into the design of these buildings adequately. Frankly, many builders figured 40-50 years later they would be gone. Then it became someone else’s problem, or it simply meant more work.
Simple Solution to a Longstanding Problem
I have shown construction engineers on our local bridge how adding basalt rebars and better concrete with far more impermeable properties could significantly lengthen the life and lessen repairs. In a meeting in front of everyone an official said, “We will not use those products because we will run out of work”! Wow!
We have hundreds of years of work to do if we started yesterday.
Putting good steel deeper in the core of a structure — like stainless or galvanized MMX type and then surrounding the outer sections close to the surface with Basalt volcanic rock fiber reinforcements are a solution for ALL concrete. We then would not have the spalling seen today everywhere. Why this has not already been integrated into new designs is puzzling.
Basalt rebar is 2-3 times stronger in tension than steel, yet over 70% lighter and will not corrode.
Basalt can be very close to the surface where a lot of structural forces are most needed. Having the steel deeper in the core and a better concrete with waterproofing additives and basalt all around is the best combination and longest-lasting solution.
Cost Considerations
It is perceived that the approach might cost a little more to begin but the long-term costs are far less. And today, Basalt rebar is less expensive than its steel counterpart.
Sensible design engineering will incorporate FRP (BFRP for basalt) into buildings of the future. More geopolymer cements, as well as high and ultra-high-performance, concretes which do not allow chloride ingress – enhanced with basalt instead of steel is the best solution.
Additives to stop water penetrations are now available, pozzolanic additives for strength also.
Pilings, foundations, slabs, and balconies that today are all prone to failure over time need to be re-engineered with the materials we have which have been proven.
Basalt mini-bars are also now available as toothpick size macro fibers. These can be used in slabs and completely eliminate rebar! Adding them, in general, would make whole sections of concrete more ductile, and significantly add tensile and elastic modulus.
It is time as now lifespan is a huge part of costs.
Build new and repair existing with basalt reinforcements!
Most all DOTs have expressed that a huge portion of their budget is in repairs rather than in new builds. Especially those states near saltwater or using road salts for deicing.
Instead of engineers specifying ONE or the other, it is time to understand that including FRP (BFRP) for basalt with steel for high strength long-lasting bridge and road work is a key solution. Again, better add mixes, macro fibers, better steel and better concretes with Basalt reinforcements are the answer. There is no longer any need to go looking for these solutions as the testing and data are known.
Materials Science
Basalt is rock and the fibers being rock, expand and contract at the same rate as concrete, unlike steel. Cold temperatures in the morning followed by very warm temperatures in the afternoon cause expansion and contraction. These make fine cracks in concrete. Small cracks become bigger ones. Water penetrates, ice can form, and the corrosion increases, little by little until the rust has nowhere to go. The concrete pops open in bigger chunks. This is “spalling”. The capacity of the steel which with a little rust is fine and somewhat protected. However, as this rusting continues the steel no longer has the structural capacity needed. And then the problems are a lot more significant.
Wraps can be made of composite fibers like fiberglass and carbon fibers and basalt with epoxy to help mitigate the destruction. Carbon fibers are strong in one direction however they are electrically conductive and shatter on impact from the side. And it is very expensive. Fiberglass does not have the saltwater tolerance or chemical durability of basalt. Basalt fibers are over 24% higher flexural modulus of elasticity than fiberglass- stiffer.
Basalt fibers are hundreds of degrees hotter and colder temperature capable than fiberglass. Being rock also they are more easily recyclable. Basalt takes wide impact better than most other fibers by far. It is UV immune, easy to work with and apply resins to, and cuts nicely. Basalt volcanic rock fibers are the answer for longevity, security, and affordability.
Spalling – We’ve all seen it
I am showing some examples of what we have all seen under bridges and along highways of this spalling of concrete and steel.
Spalling concrete near a beach
The same wall, but in more detail, showing the decay and lack of support
The same beam in even more detail. We see this all the time. And we “accept it” as being normal. Why?
I am quite sure we all do not want to drive over these bridges with heavy trucks. Or live in a building with this holding it up. No longer is it acceptable to continue to do the wrong thing when we know there are alternatives and the cost of doing things right is less in total by far.
Rethinking and Rebuilding
Our new infrastructure budgets can help repair with adequate solutions. Additionally, we must school and train new engineers to think differently. And they in turn will begin to build differently, Change will come.
They only know what they are taught and only stamp engineering plans according to the codebooks. However, the time has gone on far too long now for changes to these codes. The train is leaving the station and the materials we know now exist are ready to be included. Again, not to exclude the decades of proven capacity of steel and concrete, but to enhance them significantly.
Buildings, bridges, dams, roads, highways, and all the support systems made with concrete can be far longer-lasting and lighter and stronger. Bridge decks have been made successfully with FRP and the railings on these can be all composites.
Use the right materials – Cost and Repair Avoidance
Why pay every couple of years to sandblast and repaint railings that can be stronger and lighter than steel and never have to be repainted?
Foam core reinforced composites can replace many concrete sections and last much longer. Tunnels can be made or coated with ultra-high-performance concretes reinforced with basalt macro fibers, rebar, and mesh. Using this approach these tunnels will not allow for chloride penetration that causes ultimate destructions. Candy coating strong concretes with this technology is an affordable solution.
Far more flexural ductile concretes can handle earthquakes and hurricanes.
Underground piping enhanced with these products will handle stresses and be safer while lasting decades longer.
Many buildings hundreds to thousands of years old in Europe are standing because they did NOT have steel reinforcements.
We are repairing historic building structures like cathedrals and mosques and significant sites all over Europe and the Middle East with basalt reinforcements because they do not corrode over time.
Domes, barrel vaults, arches, etc. all, are far more structurally sound with the use of basalt fiber reinforcements or basalt rope. (We are currently helping restoration efforts in a number of historical buildings using these and other basalt products. Contact usfor guidance.)
Oil and gas pipelines, even asphalt roadways, airport runways, and communications towers will benefit and be safer including basalt volcanic rock fiber reinforcements while not cracking and corroding.
Advanced plant-based resins are now developed that are non-toxic, can be more easily disposed of at their end-of-life cycle.
New resins that are completely non-toxic with no hazardous carcinogens are now available and when mixed with basalt fibers do not burn while emitting only water vapor.
Alternatives and Replacements
Replace petroleum base fibers with all rock basalt fibers and these resins to make anything from boat hulls to truck and auto bodies.
3D printing will soon be able to make much larger format structures like bridge sections that will have the internal geometry to support lighter and stronger materials (a major one being basalt fiber composites). All structures are based on geometry and it is our belief that we will soon be using the computers and materials advances to bring infrastructure into a new realm.
Seriously reducing the amount of concrete which is one of the world’s most used materials and largest carbon emitter is crucial. Of course, making our roads, bridges, and buildings safer more durable, and longer-lasting while being healthier is the goal.
As stated, better concretes, Geo-polymers, stronger, lighter, and longer-lasting reinforcements are here and ready to be included in the specifications.
It’s time for a change
We need the government to embrace much more expeditiously these changes, to get behind them in a big way quickly as time is running out for slowly changing. Again, we are NOT recommending replacing the methods and materials completely of today everywhere but enhancing them, enveloping them with the longer-lasting materials and solutions available now.
In time composites will possibly eliminate a great portion of the concrete used now and our aim is to be a good part of that.
Let’s train the designers of tomorrow and educate those in charge today why this is needed and how to implement these changes.
Basalt rocks are melted into filaments and woven into fabrics
Would you like to replace fiberglass with a natural, stronger, greener alternative that lasts longer with superior properties? Higher impact-resistant basalt fibers are pultruded filaments of fibers just like fiberglass or carbon fiber or Kevlar only ALL ROCK. More chemical and acids and salt tolerant and hundreds of degrees hotter and colder temperatures capable. Basalt is safe, non-respirable (wear masks if sanding of course), UV immune, over 24% higher flexural modulus than fiberglass (stiffer but bends), non-conductive and does not interfere with RF communications signals.
Volcanos expanded their gasses millions of years ago. Basalt lasts a long time!
Basalt is one of the original building materials. When properly “prepared”, Basalt is equally “at home” as rebar supporting a dam, or as a fiber skirting as an air dam on the front of a sports car. Click on this link to our Shop section to see all the capabilities of the products we have in-house. If you have questions, contact us. We can provide in-depth answers, based upon years of practical experience.
I don’t know about you, but one of our family’s favorite activities is to be out on the water boating. We enjoy wake surfing in the Okanagan and cruising the picturesque BC coastline. And when in Florida, we love exploring the crystal waters off the coast. The LAST thing I want to be doing is having to spend countless hours on cleanup and maintenance. And, of course, any savings on fuel we can generate, are greatly appreciated. It doesn’t matter whether you are on a lake or in the ocean, the wear and tear on boats are extreme. Foot traffic, UV as the sun beats down on all surfaces exposed, or the salt all add up. And worse, biofilm and minerals become glued to the deck and hull, in some cases within a matter of days! I find it a real pain to deal with.
Safety First
As a captain, of course, the safety of all aboard is a huge responsibility. Any approach to help limit mishaps can be a huge relief, as you take out friends/guests with little or no experience boating. I am excited to make the most of our product line. It limits my time spent cleaning and focusing more on the fun side …..floating, cruising, and surfing. Less stress and less mess are fantastic!
Our WetGripTM surface coating options help keep you stable, even with wet bare feet aboard a wet deck or around a pool. Our HygieniCoatTM keeps your interior surfaces safe while our Hydrophobic nanotech coatings keep bio buildup off your hull. This alone saves thousands in maintenance and improving fuel economy by limiting surface cavitation and drag.
Whether powered by sail or an avid offshore racer, check out our Performance Packages to make the most of your time on the water this year. These packages are tuned for your needs by industry performance and safety experts.
Here at BueGold Labs, we are environmentally conscious. This is reflected in the materials and technologies we create, represent, and sell. We are so proud to be able to offer incredible Non-Toxic/Non-Leaching options that will protect your boat, deck, dock, or even your home while being respectful of this beautiful place we live.
In short, we have numerous ways we can reduce maintenance while improving safety and performance. And who wouldn’t want this?! Click on Shop or Performance Packages to learn more.
With a number of our key staff being active in the motion picture & stunt business for many years, it is no surprise we keenly are aware of just how important it is to keep staff Safe ….. they are not easily replaceable. Covid has been the game-changer for this industry where despite incredible efforts, the work environment remains a challenge. With our industry expertise, we assembled a highly qualified engineering team and for over, a year have been working on what we believe will become the industry benchmark for motion picture Set air safety.
BlueGold Labs Inc. has taken the very best technology developed for Aerospace and made it useable for Set. We have blended a number of best-of-class products including our own antimicrobial surface coatings. Our HygienicoatTM comes in various formulations to cover any surface from fabric to cameras, even your lens! With these coatings, combined with our AEROSAURTM, which offers sanitized air silently to your “Ones”, we offer one of the most effective overall set solutions to keep you and your team safe.
For absolute peace of mind, we offer Auditable results, minimizing downtime, keeping you Rolling.
Please see our Home page and scroll down a little to the first sub-section – the AEROSAUR. Please contact us for more details.
What if we told you we have passive coating solutions to heat or cool your pool? Would this get your attention? 🙂
A beautiful location. However, is it a safe one?
If you constantly have kids running around your pool, or guests that love to see the bottom of your punch bowl, you will very likely appreciate some of the newest technologies BlueGold Labs has developed to give you a little extra peace of mind.
BlueGold Labs WetGripTMcan be added to a number of our Nanocoatings to help give you traction, keeping the party on deck where it belongs, whether the surface is wet or dry. WetGrip can be used on an endless list of substrates, be it kitchens, gyms, bathrooms, or of course your pool and deck. Our HygieniCoatTMantimicrobial offers an auditable solution that helps with taking out Viruses instantly on contact 24 hours a day, so your guests avoid taking home unwanted party favors. The proper product will seal and protect your space from the elements making cleanup a breeze. Its natural resistance to fire and the UV resistant properties helping to preserve your sanctuary for many years to come. If you are looking to keep something warm or cool, we have some of the best solutions available, currently being used in Aerospace.
Non-Toxic Non-Leaching Coatings
You will be thankful to know that each of these solutions has been thoughtfully designed as Green, nontoxic options that will not leach into the environment. Preserving the Earth and keeping your family, friends, and pets safe is just as much of a focus for our team.
Check out the amazing SHOP options presented by BlueGold Labs, designed to safely keep your home, pool, boat, or even plane protected and looking its very best.
What’s deadlier than a room full of Ninjas? BlueGold Labs HygieniCoatTM!! We all know that even Ninjas eventually get tired, but our auditable HygieniCoatTMbattles Viruses all day, every day, seven days a week.
Warriors preparing for battle. The microbes may have already won before the event even starts….
Our passive/aggressive technology was developed for Aerospace and is in use there right now, circling above us! It attacks everything that comes into contact with it at a microscopic level without using harsh chemicals so that you, those around you, and your pets stay safe for months! Coverage can be simply verified with a black-light to confirm surface protection and any touch-ups required due to attrition can be carried out with ease. Put away those toxic sprays and enjoy peace of mind for days.
And for our Ninja friends in the gym, treating that environment is a greater challenge. We combine our HygieniCoatTM and WetGripTM product suite to create an auditable germ-free and slip-free environment where you can be as badass as you want, and not get taken out by microbes.
The juice IS worth the squeeze if you are Racing with the right stuff. Every drop counts! Any seconds you can shave, the weight you can save, or the power you can add all get you across the line quicker. Part of any build involves heat control. Insulation is a much-needed but bulky and weighty component. Heat exhausts the driver and wears out components
Our solution? CermathermTM for hyper insulation. Our Nanotech keeps you looking sharp and keeps components running their best, even in the most extreme conditions. It sprays on thin and outperforms the competition while keeping you looking AND feeling cool.
To see how you can apply CermathermTM across a number of applications. check out our Performance Packages to view your most comprehensive options and make sure all your bases are covered.
Help keep our oceans, lakes, and rivers alive and well with our Antifoul Super-Slick and Surface Coatings. These are world-class battle-tested nanoceramics. Unlike the competition, this Green non-leaching formula is ideal for preventing scale, algae, mollusks, and seaweed from bonding to surfaces below the water. In turn, these changes lead to faster and smoother travel through the water. They also reduce the level of maintenance, which in turn means more time on the water enjoying yourself.
We could see this being implemented to eliminate zebra mollusks and other predatory species. Yes – it’s that good!
Other technologies we like are basalt building materials that are NOT impacted by seawater or salt. These are long-lasting and not prone to decay. See our blog on coastal construction to learn more.
Our team is turning Basalt into everything from affordable Green Housing to Yachts, Formula 1 parts to woven fabric that can be used for armor and so much more.
