Innovation in the agricultural sector: trench silos made from cementless concrete

An important step towards a more sustainable future was taken today at ILVO - the Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food Research in Merelbeke-Melle.


Together with our partners ResourceFull and AC Materials, STRABAG Belgium is realising the very first innovative trench silos from geopolymer concrete. For the first time, this type of concrete - completely free of cement - is being applied in a demanding, real-world environment such as agriculture. The result?

• Up to 70% lower climate impact compared to the same structure in traditional standardised concrete.
• A sustainable solution in which the extra cost of the concrete is recouped in the long run.
• Strength and wear resistance at least equivalent to traditional concrete, as confirmed by extensive lab and pilot tests by Buildwise, the construction industry's innovation centre.

This project shows how collaboration and innovation go hand in hand

• STRABAG Belgium was in charge of the design and construction of the trench silos.
• ResourceFull brought expertise in alkali-activated binders.
• AC Materials supplied durable concrete.

With innovation funding from VLAIO and long-term technical follow-up by Buildwise, this project contributes to the broader sustainability transition in concrete construction.

We are proud that STRABAG Belgium can take on this pioneering role and help build the agriculture of tomorrow.

Link to the press release.