DISPATCH Number 15 | Winter 2025
First of its kind CCU
ASH GROVE
Message from Richard To our valued customers across the region, thank you for your trust, loyalty, and collaboration throughout 2025. Your support has enabled us to navigate this evolving landscape while continuing to deliver the quality, reliability, and innovation you expect. From city‑building projects in Winnipeg and Saskatoon to transformative urban developments in Ontario, your collaboration has been essential in shaping stronger, more resilient communities. We are honoured to work with partners who share our commitment to building a better, sustainable future.
ensuring we can support your evolving needs and long‑term ambitions. Our project with Carbon Upcycling Technologies is breaking new ground in applying captured CO2 in cement manufacturing, reducing embodied carbon, and creating new opportunities for circular economy material. Additionally, the CRH acquisition of Eco Material Technologies and new investments in our blast furnace slag operations further strengthens our ability to supply high-quality supplementary cementitious materials. These advancements complement the significant capital investments underway at the Mississauga Cement Plant, all aimed at enhancing process productivity, improving product quality, and advancing the overall sustainability history of our operations.
Looking ahead, the Ash Grove North Region team remains committed to serving as your strategic partner—delivering superior products, trusted technical support, and innovative solutions that enable you to meet your project requirements. The year 2026 will mark a significant milestone in our journey toward decarbonization as we continue to make substantial investments at our Ash Grove Mississauga Cement Plant to expand our product offering and strengthen our cementitious solutions,
As 2026 approaches, we are poised for continued growth fueled by innovation, infrastructure renewal, and a shared commitment to sustainability. Thank you for your continued trust and collaboration. Together, we are building strong communities, creating more resilient infrastructure, and reinventing the way our world is built! Richard Sluce Senior Director of Sales and Marketing, Canada and Great Lakes Region
Welcoming Zachary Jones to the Technical Services Team We are thrilled to announce a new member to the team, Zachary Jones, who will be supporting Technical Services during Jasmine Samadi’s maternity leave. Zachary has been with CRH for over seven years, spending time with both Dufferin Construction as a Quality Control Technician, and more recently, Ash Grove Cement in the role of Safety Specialist. Throughout his time with Dufferin Construction, Zachary has been involved with numerous concrete projects, with more notable work supporting both Edmonton International Airport, and Calgary International Airport. Zachary made the transition into Health and Safety with Ash Grove Cement, where he focused on hazard mitigation through proactive measures. We would like to extend a warm welcome to Zachary.
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View the full release (PDF)
CRH Completes $2.1B Acquisition of Eco Material Technologies On September 22, CRH, the leading global provider of building materials announced the completion of its acquisition of Eco Material Technologies. Eco Material Technologies is a leading supplier of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) in North America.
• Demonstrates CRH’s commitment to accelerating growth through value-creating capital allocation
synthetic gypsum and green cement operations distributed across a network of over 125 utility source locations, production facilities and terminals. The company partners with leading electric utilities to process and recycle approximately seven million tons of fly ash and three million tons of synthetic gypsum and other materials annually, with significant additional capacity currently under construction.
Eco Material Technologies is headquartered in Utah and operates a national network of fresh and harvested fly ash, pozzolans,
The business will operate as Eco Material Technologies, a CRH Company.
This transaction: • Uniquely positions CRH to meet growing demand for cementitious products to modernize North America’s infrastructure • Secures long-term supply of critical materials and strengthens CRH’s position as a leading cementitious player in North America • Further expands CRH’s national distribution network and innovation capabilities to better serve its customers
Mississauga Cement Plant Reaches Safety Milestone We are proud to share that our Mississauga Cement Plant has recently surpassed a significant milestone of operating over 1,000 days free from a Lost Time Incident (LTI). Through various contributions, this achievement would not have been possible without the immense focus and dedication towards increasing employee plant safety. Eliminating high-risk tasks, implementing comprehensive training on hazards and safety procedures, and redefining the cement manufacturing process through innovative technology have all been crucial towards achieving success. This incredible accomplishment speaks to the collaborative effort from all departments, taking pride in making safety at Ash Grove our number one priority. Winter 2025 | ASH GROVE DISPATCH | 3
CUT Groundbreaking Event Carbon Upcycling Technologies (“Carbon Upcycling”), a leader in carbon and resource utilization, and Ash Grove, a CRH Company and one of North America's leading cement manufacturers, broke ground this summer on Carbon 1 Mississauga, a Canadian first-of-its-kind commercial carbon capture and utilization facility at Ash Grove's cement plant in Mississauga, Ontario. The project will use Carbon Upcycling's patented technology to permanently sequester CO2 from the cement kiln and utilize it to transform locally produced industrial byproducts into high-quality, low-carbon supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). Once operational in 2026, the facility will have the capacity to produce up to 30,000 tonnes of SCMs annually, directly contributing to Canada's climate and clean manufacturing goals. In recognition of its innovation and environmental potential, the Carbon 1 Mississauga project has been awarded up to $10 million in federal funding through three key Canadian programs. Carbon 1 Mississauga is supported by Next Generation Manufacturing's Sustainable Manufacturing Program, the Environment and Climate Change Canada's Low Carbon Economy Fund and is receiving advisory services and funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). “Clean technology, including carbon capture, will play an integral role in our efforts to decarbonize. Projects such as this one present significant economic opportunity for Canadian industry in clean technology, clean energy and decarbonization. We will continue to work with partners across sectors to accelerate the adoption of this kind of technology and ensure Canada is a global leader in carbon capture investments.” – The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada “Harnessing advanced digital technologies is key to making manufacturing more sustainable and efficient. The Advanced Manufacturing Cluster, one of Canada's global innovation clusters, is helping to accelerate environmentally responsible manufacturing processes from coast to coast to coast. These collaborative projects highlight the power of innovation to drive real progress—helping Canada's manufacturers thrive while supporting our climate goals and enhancing our global competitiveness.” – The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation
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“What we're launching is more than a new system, it's a new way forward. This project signals a breakthrough in how we decarbonize one of the world's most essential industries. We're proud to build it in Canada, using homegrown talent, partnerships and purpose‑driven innovation.” – Serge Schmidt, President of Ash Grove
“Carbon 1 Mississauga is a milestone in our journey to build world-leading, domestic supply chains in North America. It will stand as a testament to the shared commitment of our team, our partners at CRH and Ash Grove, and the local community who share our vision for a resilient, clean tomorrow. With this project we're setting the precedent for a new way forward. One that aligns community, industry and climate, so that we can build local, build better, and most importantly, build today.” – Apoorv Sinha, CEO of Carbon Upcycling
The Carbon 1 Mississauga project is being delivered through a multi-stakeholder collaboration. CRH Ventures, the venture capital unit of CRH, has invested in Carbon Upcycling and is playing a key role in scaling the company's technology. “This groundbreaking project is a powerful example of what happens when innovators, industry leaders and governments come together with a shared vision. We're proud to support Carbon Upcycling in bringing scalable, carbon-smart cement solutions to market and to accelerate innovation that drives our industry forward.” – Eduardo Gomez, Head of CRH Ventures This initiative will create several permanent skilled jobs in the Ontario region and support additional employment during the construction phase.
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Winter Proof Your Workspace: A Quick Guide to Cold Weather Safety As Canadian winter approaches, preparing your equipment and yard is crucial for safety and efficiency. The cold months bring unique hazards, from invisible gases to hidden obstacles. A little preparation now can prevent accidents, injuries and costly repairs down the line. The Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Faulty heating equipment is a leading cause of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in winter. This odourless and colourless gas can quickly become lethal in enclosed spaces.
Establish Designated Walkways Clear primary routes between buildings, parking areas and entrances. Keep an eye overhead for any hanging snow and ice or potential danger from ice and snow slides from roofs.
Ventilation Is Vital Never operate fuel burning equipment like furnaces, space heaters, boilers or generators in poorly ventilated spaces. Ensure intake and exhaust vents are clear of obstructions. A blocked vent can force CO back inside. Keep snow and ice clear and make a habit of checking gas meters, vents etc. after snow or freezing rain events.
Clear Snow Promptly Don’t let snow accumulate and become packed down into ice. Shovel pathways wide enough for two people to safely pass.
Schedule Professional Maintenance Before the deep cold sets in, have a qualified and licenced technician inspect and service your heating equipment. They will check for cracks, leaks and pressures and ensure everything is working correctly and efficiently. Check your provincial authority for licenced contractors. Ontario’s Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) has information on their website to help prevent CO injuries and deaths: www.tssa.org Install CO Detectors This is nonnegotiable and critical. Install battery operated or battery backup CO detectors in areas where heating appliances are in offices and near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries as needed. Clear Paths, Safe Steps Snow and ice create a major slip, trip and fall hazard. Protecting walking routes is essential for everyone’s safety.
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A Tidy Yard Is a Safe Yard A yard that is not tidy in the fall can become a hazard zone after a snowfall. What you can’t see can cause damage to equipment, personnel and cause accidents. Hidden Hazards Before the first snow do a thorough walk‑through. Remove any debris, loose tools, extension cords or materials that could be hidden by snow. These items are trip hazards and can cause severe damage to snow blowers, plow trucks and other equipment. Mark What Cannot Be Moved Use highly visible, sturdy stakes or flags to mark the location of permanent fixtures like fire hydrants, valve covers and edges of paved areas. This guides the plow operator and prevents costly strikes. Hitting a solid hidden object with equipment such as front-end loaders can stop the equipment immediately. There is no forgiveness and an injury or damage is extremely likely.
Key Equipment Checks Snow Removal Gear Service and test snow moving equipment. Check tire pressures, blades and augers etc. for damage or excessive wear. Ensure your fuel is clean and free of water, ensure equipment filled in the summer has used up the fuel as gas and diesel fuels change seasonally in Canada. Don’t get stuck in the cold with poor starting in gas engines and gelled fuel in diesel engines. Emergency Kits Stock vehicles with a winter survival kit: blanket, extra warm clothing, flashlight, shovel, water and high energy snacks. Taking these steps will help ensure your facility and home is ready to face the Canadian winter safely. By focusing on ventilation clear walkways, and a hazard free yard you protect your people, families your equipment and your peace of mind all season long.
Connecting with Industry Peers in Alliston and Montréal September and October are ideal months for associations to hold their annual events. They’re also the only months left on the calendar after you take out summer vacation, winter holidays and spring break. It’s a time to reconnect with industry peers, learn a new acronym or two, and force down hotel coffee. Ash Grove’s first stop was in Alliston, Ontario, for the CCMPA Annual General Meeting. This year the association continued 2024’s Carbon Conversation with the Concrete Masonry Unit Sustainability Summit, featuring a panel of industry professionals
sharing unique perspectives on the concrete block market. On day two, attendees fought for the Grimo Cup on the golf course, followed by dinner and a charity auction hosted by our resident Ash Grove philanthropist, Mr. John Hellyer.
The next and final stop was a two‑for‑one in Montréal, Quebec. This year, the CCPPA and CPCI organized their fall meetings and convention under one roof. It came as no surprise that the joint welcome reception was a well-attended success, with the consensus that this would be the new format for future events. This year saw Ash Grove become an Associate Member of CPCI, and at CCPPA, Sy Steppacher presented an update on the company’s recent news headlines (CUT groundbreaking and the acquisition of Eco Material Technologies). A huge shoutout to the people who organize these events throughout the year!
SEPTEMBER 10-11, 2025 Alliston, ON Canadian Concrete Masonry Producers Association (“CCMPA”)
OCTOBER 21-24, 2025 Montréal, QC Canadian Concrete Pipe & Precast Association (CCPPA); Canadian Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (CPCI)
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e h T k As m a e T Tech Help! It’s getting colder! My concrete sets are slow, my strengths are low and I am in a state of woe… Sincerely, Ann Xious Winter Concreting, the Do’s Pouring concrete in winter or cold weather presents a unique set of challenges that can compromise the strength, durability and aesthetics of a project. The impact of low temperatures on the hydration process, the chemical reaction that allows concrete to harden and gain strength, is a key contributor to performance concerns. When temperatures drop, this process slows significantly, and in some cases, leaves the concrete vulnerable to freezing before it can reach a minimum strength. A proactive approach incorporating best practices and a deep understanding of mix design is essential to minimize the risk. Preparation Is Paramount • Thaw the Ground: Never pour concrete on frozen ground or ice. A frozen subgrade can settle unevenly as it thaws, leading to cracks in the finished slab. Frozen subgrades can also lower concrete temperatures leading to poor cement hydration. Use ground heaters or insulating blankets in advance to warm the area. • Clear the Site: Remove all snow, ice and debris from formwork, reinforcement and the pouring surface which can compromise the concrete’s integrity by increasing water‑cement ratios and lowering concrete temperatures. • Heat Materials: Use warm mixing water and heat aggregates to raise the concrete’s temperature to acceptable standards.
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Mix Design Matters • Use Air Entrainment: Air-entrained concrete, a system of microscopic air bubbles, is critical for any project exposed to freeze-thaw cycles by providing space for expanding water as it freezes. This can help prevent surface defects like scaling, flaking and pop outs. • Lower the Water-to-Cement Ratio: Denser concrete slows the rate of water and salt penetration which can result in better freeze-thaw and salt scale resistance. • Add Accelerators: Non-chloride accelerating admixtures can be added to speed up the concrete’s setting time which can contribute to the concrete reaching strength gain to help resist freezing. High-Range Water Reducers Incorporating a superplasticizer allows for a lower water-to-cement ratio while achieving workability. This can increase strength and can reduce the risk of overworking the surface which can make the concrete less vulnerable to scaling. Execution and Curing Are Critical • Insulating Blankets and/or Heaters: After placement, immediately cover the concrete with insulated blankets or other thermal protection. This traps the heat generated by hydration, which can prevent the surface from freezing. Avoid the use of propane heaters as they can promote efflorescence. Heated enclosures may be necessary to maintain a constant warm temperature for the concrete to cure properly.
• Longer Insulation and Curing Time: Allow the concrete longer periods of protection with insulated blankets, heaters or heated enclosures until the concrete has surpassed the critical strength threshold. • Duration of Forms in Place: Leave forms in place as they act as an additional layer of insulation which can retain heat and a stable curing environment. • Concrete Temperature: Continuously monitor the temperature of the concrete and ambient air. Special attention should be paid to thin sections, edges and corners, which are most vulnerable to heat loss. Use maturity sensors that provide real‑time data on the concrete’s internal temperature and maturity. • Removing Protection: Allow the concrete to cool slowly to prevent thermal shock and cracking. By following best practices for mix design and protection methods, contractors can successfully pour concrete in cold weather to achieve long‑lasting and durable results.
Technical Team at your Service: What We Offer Our Technical Services team has completed multiple certifications to stay current with today’s field’s technological advances. The importance of proper concrete field testing by a certified personnel member is crucial to verify concrete performance and ensure your business is receiving high quality support, technical advice, and concrete testing. Some of the examples listed below is what we focus on applying our technical expertise to solve specific challenges for our customers. If you require any assistance, please reach out to our technical services team as some services can vary significantly depending on project and industry. Have a look below at some of the solutions our Technical Services team can offer your business. Hey Tech team, I’m noticing some shifts in my concrete strengths. What can we do to figure out what the issue is?
Great question! We can come to your plant and conduct several tests to help analyze and optimize your mix design. Some examples include: • Sampling plastic concrete and verifying concrete breaks • Making and curing concrete compression and flexural test specimens • Confirming air content of plastic concrete by the pressure method • Ensuring the slump of concrete is on target, to limit additional water which can increase water cement ratios. • Density, and yield • Temperature of freshly mixed concrete • Gradation of aggregates (stone and sand) • Wash pass (cleanliness or other impurities) • Organic impurities in concrete sand (silt and clay in concrete sand may reduce the strength of your mix, and
decrease the cement-aggregate bond leading to structural issues) • Particle shape and fracture (flats and elongated coarse aggregate that can negatively impact your mix design) Mix Optimization • The process of determining the best combination of materials like cement, aggregates, water, and admixtures to achieve required performance (strength, durability, workability) while minimizing cost or environmental impact The Tarantula Curve (Aggregate Optimization) • Plotting the right proportion of different size aggregates, from fine to coarse, and provide a recommended range for each size fraction The goal with the analyses above is to find deficiencies in your mix design and then optimize to improve your concrete strength and cost.
Hi Tech team, my concrete cylinders from a recent pour have failed, the contractor is looking for solutions. How can you help?
Great question! We offer numerous different onsite testing services to verify strength. Some examples include: • We can perform a nondestructive test method for estimating compressive strength in accordance with ASTM C805 called the Rebound number of hardened concrete, also known as Schmidt Hammer testing • We can facilitate a third-party testing firm that can extract core samples to evaluate in place concrete strengths and identify defects in the concrete material properties, such as: • Petrographic analysis (determine w/c ratios used on concrete mix design) • Evaluate chloride penetration to understand potential damages from salt • Efficacy of the bond between the aggregate and cement paste • Determine concrete strengths (as per CSA A23.1, 85% of strength achieved is considered a pass) The goal with the analyses above is to find deficiencies in your hardened concrete. With this data, we can optimize your mix designs to improve your hardened concrete properties.
Hey Tech team, I’m bidding for a sustainability project and there seems to be a lot of requirements that the contractor is requesting around carbon footprint, Global Warming Potential (GWP) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Designs (LEED). Can you help with this?
Yes, absolutely! Please reach out to Technical Services and they can help you fill out LEED documentation, provide you with cement supply letters, GWP/Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) data, Mill certificates (Certificate of Analysis) and any additional supporting documentation required. Our Technical Services are provided for informational purposes only. Ash Grove does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information that we provide. Customers should engage an independent certified agency for all testing requirements.
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Our Favourite Holiday Movies! Sy Steppacher
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) Home Alone 2: Lost in New York has always been my favourite Christmas movie, both when I was a kid and even today. There’s something deeply nostalgic about watching Kevin navigate the chaos of the big city with his signature mix of courage, mischief and heart. I’ve always connected with him, especially having an older-teasing brother myself, which made his adventures and clever payback feel especially satisfying. Beyond the humor and the slapstick traps, the movie perfectly blends love, family and festive chaos in a way that captures the true spirit of the holidays, reminding me every year why it remains so special. Nives Greco
Miracle on 34th Street (1994) My favourite movie to watch during the holidays is Miracle on 34th Street. It’s a timeless story that beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas through faith, kindness and the magic of believing. I love how it blends a sense of realism with pure holiday wonder, reminding us that sometimes the most extraordinary things come from simply having faith. The warmth and charm of the story always leave me feeling nostalgic and full of Christmas cheer, no matter how many times I’ve seen it. Jasmine Samadi
Christmas with the Kranks (2004) Either sipping a nice warm glass of delicious hot cocoa or enjoying a bubbly cranberry mimosa, this is my all-time go-to movie during the cold winter months, snuggled up on the couch with my Christmas onesie that I force Rico into watching with me (haha). Tim Allen has always been a childhood favourite, also starring in The Santa Clause, one of my favourite movies growing up. Danny Salvo
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987) My favourite holiday movie is Planes, Trains and Automobiles. I grew up watching it with my family every Christmas break, even though it takes place during American Thanksgiving, and it remains one of my favourite comedies. Watching this movie now, with a family and career of my own, I notice two life lessons that I didn’t appreciate as a child. One, there is no better feeling than a warm welcome home from your family. And two, always book a room with two beds.
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Rob Richer
The Grinch (2018) Our son fell in love with the Grinch movies last year, specifically the new Netflix edition. It’s colourful and imaginative, just as the original book was. It brings good humour for both kids and adults to appreciate. And as any parent knows, by default, your kid’s favourite show is your favourite show. Looking forward to watching it another 100 times this season… Richard Sluce
Die Hard (1988) When I think of all-time classic Christmas movies, Die Hard is the first film that comes to mind. Now, there are some who will argue that this film is in fact not a Christmas movie, and that’s ok, but they would be ill-informed. The plot takes place on Christmas Eve, when John McClane is traveling to reconcile with his wife on Christmas while attending a Christmas party. Sure sounds like the makings of a classic Christmas story to me! One to be enjoyed with friends and family over the holidays! Richard Gunn
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) It’s a Wonderful Life is my favourite holiday movie because nothing says Christmas cheer like watching George Bailey hit rock bottom before realising that friendship matters more than money. It’s the perfect reminder that even when life feels like a broken snow globe, a little kindness and an angel named Clarence can turn things around. It shows that the true holiday spirit isn’t in fancy gifts, it’s in appreciating the people who make your life truly wonderful. Zach Jones
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) My favourite movie to watch during the holidays is Jim Carrey’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I love a good comedy and Jim Carrey is as funny as it gets, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments playing the role of the Grinch. The movie has a great storyline exploring the Grinch’s origin story, delving into why he is so bitter and angry. This results in a deeper understanding of the Grinch and ultimately showcasing his journey from a cold-hearted creature to a kind-hearted being. This is a must-watch movie during the holiday season, with plenty of entertainment for both adults and children.
Ekalavyan Sadasivan
John Hellyer
Home Alone (1990)
Fred Claus (2007)
My favourite movie to watch during the holidays is Home Alone. Nothing says Christmas like a kid singing ‘White Christmas’ in the shower, using aftershave, and outsmarting two burglars with paint cans and a blowtorch. Every time that jingle kicks in, I’m instantly back in my childhood, plotting elaborate traps for imaginary intruders and my siblings. It’s festive chaos at its finest with equal parts heart-warming and “don’t try this at home” energy.
My go-to holiday movie is most definitely Fred Claus. Brothers at odds rally together to ensure Christmas is delivered to all. Family truly coming through for each other at desperate times. Watching Fred try to survive the North Pole with his grumpy attitude and sibling rivalry is hilarious, but underneath all the laughs it’s a story about forgiveness and family. Overall an amusing, comforting, and all‑around great feel‑good movie.
Iaroslav Jemtchoujnikov
Gord Crawker
Family Man (2000)
Elf (2003)
My go-to is Family Man. The movie is a play on Christmas Carol where a single and wealthy investment banker suddenly wakes up as a middle-class tire salesman with a family. While initially he feels like he is in a nightmare, he learns that this is what his life would have been like had he made a different choice 13 years ago. A timeless and heartwarming tale, highly recommended!
The movie I love to watch during the Holidays is Elf—a heartwarming, funny Christmas tale of innocence and belief. Never giving up and pursuing what is true in your heart, by overcoming adversity. Family is stronger than being embarrassed.
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Photo Gallery 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
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EllisDon team tour the Mississauga Plant TMU students tour the Mississauga Plant Carbon 1 Mississauga Groundbreaking Ceremony With Charles Sousa, MP at the CAC Meeting Jasmine Samadi’s maternity leave farewell lunch
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Golfing at the CCMPA in Nottawasaga SickKids HeatWave Beach Volleyball Fundraising Women on Site Celebrations More of TMU and Mississauga Plant Tour
10 The Honorable Minister Evan Solomon at the Mississauga Groundbreaking Ceremony
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Ash Grove Mississauga Cement Plant 2391 Lakeshore Rd West Mississauga, Ontario L5J 1K1 Email: AMAT-Communications-CA@crh.com
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RECYCLED Paper made from recycled material