Today’s concrete supply chain is no longer measured only in performance: environmental impact, low-emission processes, traceability and quality control also count. In this interview, Eyüp Ensar Ekşi, co-founder of Ekan Kimya, talks about how concrete admixtures evolve between eco-friendly admixtures, carbon footprint reduction, durability and application of TS EN standards.
Questions and answers
1) Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Answer: I’m Eyüp Ensar Ekşi, co-founder of Ekan Kimya. We have been operating in the concrete chemicals sector for many years and are expanding our global presence starting from the headquarters in Turkey, with investments in Italy and, more recently, in Saudi Arabia. Our goal is to offer innovative, high-performance and sustainable chemical solutions for the construction industry, making a difference in concrete technology.
2) What innovations are emerging in sustainable production and carbon footprint reduction? What is the role of local producers?
Answer: The construction industry today is evaluated not only on the basis of durability, but also on its environmental impact. Low-emission production processes and eco-friendly additives have become among the top priorities. At Ekan Kimya, we anticipated this change in advance: with our R&D team, we develop high-performance but more environmentally friendly additives, adopt more energy-efficient systems and minimize waste.
Answer: We also believe that local producers have an important responsibility: local production supports the economy and allows us to develop solutions that are better suited to regional needs. As a brand born in Turkey, we are proud to be an active part of this transformation.
3) In areas of high seismic risk, how do new additive technologies affect strength, machinability and durability? What mistakes are most frequent?
Answer: In countries with high seismic risk such as Turkey, the durability of concrete depends not only on engineering, but also on chemistry. One of the key elements is the correct use of additives, with appropriate dosages and suitable conditions. New technologies improve the workability of fresh concrete and long-term strength : for example, water-reducing additives allow high strengths with a lower water-to-cement ratio, also increasing impermeability and durability.
Answer: The most common mistakes in the field involve the application of additives without sufficient technical knowledge: dosing errors, inadequate mixing times and the use of unsuitable materials (e.g. aggregates) can compromise performance. Using the right product in the right way is crucial to extend the service life of concrete.
4) How effective are TS EN standards and local regulations? What gaps exist in the controls?
Answer: Quality control in concrete and construction chemicals is indispensable for project safety. The TS EN standards are comprehensive and provide a clear technical framework. However, in practice in the field, they are not always followed with the same rigor: in smaller projects, material selection and dosage control may not be sufficiently monitored, with risks to structural safety in the long term.
Answer: Progress has been made, but control mechanisms need to be made more systematic and sustainable. Standards must be actively applied at every stage, from production to commissioning, to ensure long-term quality and safety.
A vision that combines performance and responsibility
From the reduction of the carbon footprint to eco-friendly additives, up to the discipline of quality control and the application of TS EN standards, a clear message emerges: in modern concrete, quality is built with method, skills and consistent industrial choices.
Want to learn more? Discover the Ekan range for concrete or contact us for a technical comparison on performance, durability and correct application of additives.
