LiTraCon

LiTraCon ("light transmitting concrete") is a translucent concrete building material. Made of fine concrete embedded with 5% by weight of optical glass fibers,^[1][2] it was developed in 2001 by Hungarian architect Áron Losonczi working with scientists at the Technical University of Budapest.^[3]

Additional recommended knowledge

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LiTraCon is manufactured by the inventor's company, LiTraCon Bt, which was founded in spring 2004. The head office and workshop is located 160 km from the Hungarian capital city of Budapest near the town of Csongrád. As of 2006 all LiTraCon products have been produced by LiTraCon Bt. The concrete comes in precast blocks of different sizes.

The most notable installation of it to date is "Europe Gate," a 4 m high sculpture made of LiTraCon blocks, erected in 2004 in observance of the entry of Hungary into the European Union. The product won the German "Red Dot 2005 Design Award" for 'highest design qualities'.^[4]

Though expensive, Litracon appeals to architects because it is stronger than glass and translucent unlike concrete. It has been considered as possible sheathing for New York's Freedom Tower.^[5]

References

1. ^ Kellogg, Craig, "Space-Age Concrete Blocks That Let You See the Light." New York Times. (Late Edition (East Coast)). New York, N.Y.: Apr 15, 2004. pg. F.3.
2. ^ Gomez, Kevin, "LiTraCon shows concrete in new light." Construction Contractor (Australia), Aug. 2005.
3. ^ "Solutions: Material world." Building Design. CMP Information Ltd. March 18, 2005.
4. ^ Anonymous. "Translucent concrete developed in Europe." Civil Engineering : Magazine of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering. Yeoville: Oct 2005. Vol. 13, Iss. 10; p. 27. Source type: Periodical. ISSN: 10212000. ProQuest document ID: 958844411. Text Word Count 340. Document URL: [1] (Proquest: subscription required). retrieved Dec. 22, 2006
5. ^ Collins, Glenn and Dunlap, David W. "Seeking Better Security At a Symbol of Resolve." New York Times. (Late Edition (East Coast)). New York, N.Y.: Jun 7, 2005. pg. B.1