The nature of Raba-Kistner’s work allows us the vantage point of cutting edge technology and building methodology. Keeping pace with the expansion demands of the Southwest, we research and evaluate the feasibility of incorporating recycled materials into construction projects and offer testing of the material’s performance and durability.

Major projects typically require high volumes of Portland cement concrete. Our materials specialists design and test all types of concrete to meet the needs of our clients’ projects. We design dense low permeability concrete as well as porous free draining concrete. For flowable backfill, we design and test both high and low strength concrete. Aggregates, cement, fly ash and admixtures can also be tested for certification and conformity. Appropriately equipped and trained, our technicians perform specialized Alkali Silica Reactivity tests, Rapid Chloride Ion Permeability tests, Sulfate Attack tests, and Freeze-Thaw tests.

Aggregates to be used in asphaltic concrete for surfacing material are also tested in our laboratory for skid resistance and friction. The British Pendulum devise and the accelerated polishing device test accelerated wear on the aggregates. Our laboratory results confirm the suitability of the aggregates for use as a surfacing material.

Other possible concrete mix components are evaluated and tested for performance and state certification. Admixture designs include fly ash, silica fume and other inorganic waste materials. For construction of roads and transportation structures, these mixes offer improved workability and durability, and therefore increase the project’s lifespan. Depending upon its intended use, particular source, and its variability, Portland cement concrete, fly ash is particularly valuable. It can be designed to achieve a range of concrete strengths at various ages. Project applications include bridge decks, soil and road base stabilization, flowable fills, grouts, structural fill and asphalt filler.

Before starting their demolition, construction, or remodeling project, we help clients to determine how they will manage their construction and demolition debris, and any excess building materials. Our building, design and construction consulting services evaluate and recommend their material recovery/recycling options. These options help clients to develop cost-effective projects that are resource efficient both to build and to operate.

Raba-Kistner’s services include innovative construction applications using recycled non-hazardous materials: aluminum, compost, blast furnace slag, steel, tire rubber, ceramics, glass cullet, plastic, concrete from non-industrial sources, reclaimed asphalt pavement, and fly and bottom ash from electrical utility plants. We understand that recycling non-hazardous materials for the purpose of manufacturing products to fulfill our client’s construction project specifications must prove advantageous. An assessment is made of the materials’ reuse cost, and ability to meet product performance requirements. Our goal is then to identify products that contain the non-hazardous material and offer environmental qualities not requiring short or long-term management (i.e. worker protection, deed restrictions, tracking, monitoring, or special handling after the project life). Typically these products include concrete, hot mix base, subgrade, embankment and backfill materials, landscaping materials and metal applications.