INFLO Paver System


Techo-Bloc has introduced INFLO, a permeable tongue-and-groove paver that was developed for the industrial, commercial and institutional markets. The result of research and development efforts, the INFLO permeable paver can be used to pave large surfaces such as municipal and shopping-centre parking lots. Its design allows for the efficient management of rainwater runoff, which percolates directly into the ground and provides a cost-effective solution. In addition, this first monolithic permeable paver is far more durable than asphalt.

 
A green concept 
Unlike asphalt, the INFLO concept allows storm water to be directly absorbed into the ground, reducing the strain on our municipal sewers system. Tests by Techo-Bloc’s R&D team showed that the absorption capacity of the INFLO paver system is able to handle the heaviest rainfalls recorded in the past 50 years. 
 
Moreover, INFLO pavers are made from concrete and are generally light in colour, which means they reduce the heat islands effect created by impermeable asphalt surfaces. Since concrete has a higher solar reflectivity index than asphalt, it absorbs less heat, which significantly reduces heat islands. This will, in turn, result in lower energy costs for air conditioning and improved air quality.
 
The contribution of R&D 
The Techo-Bloc R&D team did extensive research on the pavers’ design and the type of foundations required to ensure long-term durability, stability and permeability. To design and develop a high-performance permeable commercial paver, they established and tested different foundation configurations based on existing conditions. They tested the effectiveness of the tongue and groove system and ensured that the paver met the highest manufacturing standards. Since the pavers are to be used for large surfaces, the team also developed a mechanical clamp TB100SI which increases the efficiency of installation. As a result, decreasing the overall cost of the system. 
 
Competitive cost
To cover the same surface, paving and drainage would cost:  $62/m2 with INFLO permeable pavers (water retention through its own structure), $95/m2 for impermeable asphalt, including underground water drainage using culverts and $60/m2 for impermeable asphalt with surface drainage.