Data centers are one of the fastest-growing sectors in today’s built environment. The industry has seen an absolute boom in new construction especially over the last several years, driven by the rapidly growing demand for big data processing and cloud computing – most notably in the AI and LLM technology realms.
Obviously, data centers come with many unique construction requirements. Complex power systems and liquid cooling systems are the norm – and we’ve already discussed the challenges of integrating water processing equipment into concrete structures. With the further integration of cutting-edge electronics technology, computer systems and cleanrooms, data centers take those challenges to the next level.
In construction, complexity equals cost. The high costs of building a new data center must be offset with an extended structural lifetime and reduced maintenance requirements if you want to truly maximize your ROI. Enter Hycrete: the most effective waterproof concrete solution for the growing data center industry. Our chemically-advanced admixtures help builders achieve longer-lasting construction that protects both your bottom line and the sustainability of your project.
The Rise of the North American Data Center
Home to many of the world’s leading tech companies, it’s no surprise that North America is the epicenter of the data center boom. However, the sheer scale of new construction is surprising. Approximately 29% of all national spending toward commercial office construction in 2023 went to data centers. While it’s certainly a global trend, the North American market is at the forefront, claiming a 42% share of new data center construction in 2023.
As the first name in high-tech concrete construction, Hycrete is increasingly working with builders throughout the industry to create longer-lasting structures that support their long-term ROIs. See our Case Study on a data center project for the WA State Information Services (DIS) in Wheeler, Washington.
Data Centers Demand Waterproof Concrete Construction
With their complex liquid cooling and water processing systems, data centers demand the highest level of protection possible. Hycrete is a hydrophobic (water-repelling) liquid admixture, providing data centers with the most effective waterproof concrete material. The admixture forms a performance copolymer within concrete, filling its natural capillary system until the material is virtually non-porous. Essentially, water and chemicals which would otherwise cause concrete damage and corrosion never reach beyond the surface.
However, Hycrete does go beneath the surface. The admixture naturally reacts with the metallic ions within cement and rebar, forming a rust-proof surface coating around steel reinforcement elements. Furthermore, a water-based admixture, Hycrete allows post-life concrete to be recycled. It helps builders potentially earn valuable LEED credits for green building projects while supporting the emerging sustainability initiatives of the modern tech industry.
Hycrete is especially advantageous for below-grade data center structures that consistently see hydrostatic pressure. Drastically reducing the permeability of concrete materials, Hycrete delivers enhanced water resistance regardless of hydrostatic pressure levels.
Meeting the Material Needs of the Emerging Data Center Industry
Hycrete has been an innovator in the American construction space since 2003. Our mission is to help the tech industry build better, more sustainable data centers through the engineering of better waterproof concrete materials. Backed by more than two decades of experience and thousands of successful projects worldwide, Hycrete has become the scientifically proven gold standard for concrete waterproofing and corrosion protection.
