First Graphene Powers 2,500 Graphene-Enhanced Roof Tiles in UK Trial

A New Era for Concrete Roof Tiles

First Graphene Limited (ASX, FGR) has announced a landmark achievement in sustainable construction materials with the successful initial production of graphene-enhanced concrete roof tiles by FP McCann, the UK’s largest precast concrete manufacturer. This milestone utilises 10 tonnes of PureGRAPH graphene-enhanced cement supplied by Breedon Group, a key commercial partner, and represents a pioneering step in integrating advanced materials into mainstream construction products.

The trial batch of 2,500 roof tiles was produced using FP McCann’s standard manufacturing methods, requiring no changes to existing processes. This seamless integration underscores the commercial readiness of First Graphene’s product and its potential to meet the growing demand for low-carbon, high-performance building materials in the UK housing sector.

Sustainability Meets Performance

The PureGRAPH-enhanced cement replaces traditional cement with a CEM-II classification, blending significantly less clinker; a major source of carbon emissions; while delivering superior durability. The graphene additive refines the microstructure of concrete, reducing moisture absorption and improving resistance to sulphate attack and environmental degradation. These properties are particularly crucial for roof tiles exposed to the UK’s challenging weather conditions, promising longer service life and reduced maintenance.

Beyond environmental benefits, the graphene-enhanced cement offers notable strength gains, with compressive strength improvements of 30–35% and tensile strength increases around 30%. Such enhancements not only contribute to sustainability goals but also elevate the quality and longevity of construction products.

Strategic Market Entry and Growth Potential

This development marks First Graphene’s entry into the US$7.67 billion concrete roof tile market segment, which accounts for over 40% of global tile volume. FP McCann’s production capacity of over 120,000 tiles per day highlights the scalability of this innovation. The ongoing trial program aims to produce approximately 10,000 tiles over the next five months, with plans to expand usage to up to 40 tonnes of graphene-enhanced cement.

First Graphene is also advancing multiple projects with other concrete manufacturers and engaging with industry participants across Australia, South Africa, Thailand, and Europe. The company’s leadership in graphene technology and its ability to supply tonnage-level volumes position it well to capitalize on the construction sector’s urgent need for sustainable materials.

Government Support and Industry Implications

The UK government’s commitment to delivering over one million affordable, sustainable homes aligns closely with First Graphene’s innovation. FP McCann’s trial benefits from grants totaling £114,000 from the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, reflecting strong institutional backing for graphene-enabled low-carbon construction technologies.

First Graphene’s Managing Director Michael Bell emphasised the dual benefits of carbon reduction and enhanced durability, noting that graphene-enhanced cement offers a compelling solution for manufacturers striving to meet emission reduction targets while delivering high-quality housing.