Water permeable concrete, also known as pervious concrete or permeable concrete, is a special type of concrete designed to allow water to pass through it, rather than trapping or shedding water like traditional concrete. It is engineered to have high porosity, creating a network of interconnected voids that enable water to flow through the material.
Porosity: Water permeable concrete typically has a void content of around 15% to 30%, allowing water to infiltrate through the material.
Drainage: Its porous structure enables rapid and efficient drainage of water, reducing the risk of surface runoff and minimizing stormwater runoff issues.
Water management: Water permeable concrete helps to manage stormwater by allowing rainwater to seep into the ground, replenishing groundwater resources and reducing the burden on stormwater drainage systems.
Reduced heat island effect: The open structure of water permeable concrete allows for better air circulation, reducing the heat island effect often associated with traditional concrete surfaces.
Environmental benefits: By promoting infiltration and groundwater recharge, water permeable concrete can help to mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization on natural water systems. It filters pollutants and contaminants from stormwater, improving water quality.