The Gen 2 platform represents a significant advancement in the North American scale-up of climate-resilient construction materials, providing a long-lasting, non-combustible alternative to standard gypsum, oriented strand board (OSB), and imported magnesium oxide (MgO) products.
ZS2 Technologies has announced the release of its second-generation (Gen 2) magnesium cement building materials, which are supported by confirmed fire performance, patented low-carbon technology, and domestically sourced ingredients. The Gen 2 platform represents a significant advancement in the North American scale-up of climate-resilient construction materials, providing a long-lasting, non-combustible alternative to standard gypsum, oriented strand board (OSB), and imported magnesium oxide (MgO) products. Gypsum and OSB are commonly used in residential and commercial construction for wall assemblies and sheathing, however they are susceptible to mold, moisture damage, and have inadequate fire protection, resulting in costly repairs, insurance problems, and accelerated material failure on-site.
This launch, supported by approximately $9.9 million in grant funding, presents a homegrown solution to the performance gaps of conventional materials as well as the volatility of imported magnesium oxide. In just five years, ZS2 has taken its unique waste-to-cement technology from lab-scale innovation to a commercially viable platform. Along with the development of Gen 2, the company has completed high-profile projects using its first-generation materials, such as a Krispy Kreme location in Edmonton, Alberta, the largest Habitat for Humanity development in Calaveras County, California, and Trico Homes’ mixed-use Shawnessy Station in Calgary. ZS2 is now in commercial production for Gen 2, with a focus on providing approved, next-generation materials for real-world applications across North America.
ZS2TechTile, a raised flooring system for data centers and modular commercial construction, has been recognized as non-combustible per ASTM E136-19a, as part of the performance validation roadmap for Gen 2. This industry-standard test assesses if a material may ignite, burn, or emit heat when subjected to high temperatures. The outcome strengthens trust in the Gen 2 platform and expands on third-party certifications from ZS2’s Gen 1 materials, such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Evaluation Service Reports (ESRs), approvals for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZs), and Code Evaluation Reports (CERs).
The domestic Gen 2 product line’s proprietary composition and technology build on ZS2’s first-generation portfolio of climate-resilient materials, which has proven successful. The enlarged portfolio continues to provide fire, mold, water, and pest resistance, as well as low-carbon performance and superior strength and durability.
- ZS2 Techstone Lightweight MgO stone facade, veneer, and cladding for long-lasting, impact-resistant, fire-rated exterior applications
- ZS2 TechTile 2×2. Non-combustible, low-carbon raised flooring solution suitable for data center building.
- ZS2TechBoard Backer Board (3×5) Wet-rated internal magnesium cement board for tiled walls, showers, and utility rooms.
- ZS2TechBoard 4×8 Structural Sheathing. A lightweight, high-strength sheathing panel for walls and ceilings with proven fire and moisture resistance
MgO has long been recognized for its potential, but uneven quality and reliance on international supply networks have limited its use. ZS2 has overcome both hurdles. Gen 2 materials provide continuous strength, fire performance, and supply chain reliability without the compromises of legacy materials because they are made from Canadian industrial byproducts and manufactured locally.
This announcement comes as the construction industry is under increasing pressure to decrease emissions, strengthen domestic supply chains, and improve resilience to fire, flood, and harsh weather. Cement is one of the most carbon-intensive materials globally, accounting for approximately 7% of global CO₂ emissions. Magnesium cement is a tried-and-true alternative with a carbon footprint of only one-third, but it has been hampered until now by a lack of access and local manufacture.
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“Our Generation 2 product line is not a concept. “It’s certified, specified in projects, and ready to meet the demands of today’s building industry,” stated Scott Jenkins, CEO of ZS2 Technologies. “We’ve revolutionized how magnesium cement is manufactured, where it comes from, and how it functions. Builders are preferring ZS2 because they are tired of waiting for MgO materials to arrive from overseas. We’re providing what they need right here in North America.”
ZS2’s building materials enable architects, designers, and builders to fulfill increasing code and sustainability requirements with the assurance of locally produced and performance-verified goods. ZS2 Technologies, backed by a growing portfolio of patents and certifications, is providing what the construction industry requires today while also setting a new standard for what is achievable in the built environment.
With its Gen 2 platform in place and complete board manufacturing ramping through 2025, ZS2 offers a stable, high-performance, climate-aligned choice for projects across North America.
