ZS2 Technologies has launched its second-generation (Gen 2) magnesium cement building materials, backed by verified fire performance, patented low-carbon technology and domestically sourced inputs. The Gen 2 platform marks a major step in the North American scale-up of climate-resilient construction materials, offering a durable, non-combustible alternative to traditional gypsum, oriented strand board (OSB), and imported magnesium oxide (MgO) products. Gypsum and OSB are widely used in residential and commercial construction for wall assemblies and sheathing but are prone to mold, moisture damage, and limited fire resistance—leading to costly repairs, insurance concerns, and accelerated material failure on-site.
Backed by over $9.9 million in grant funding, this launch introduces a domestic solution to the performance gaps of conventional materials and the volatility of imported MgO. In just five years, ZS2 has transformed its patented waste-to-cement process from a lab-scale innovation into a commercially ready platform. Alongside the development of Gen 2, the company has completed high-profile projects using its first-generation materials, including a Krispy Kreme location in Edmonton, Alberta, the largest Habitat for Humanity development in Calaveras County, Calif., and the mixed-use Shawnessy Station by Trico Homes in Calgary, Alberta. ZS2 is now entering commercial production for Gen 2, focused on supplying certified, next-generation materials for real-world projects across North America.
As part of Gen 2’s performance validation roadmap, ZS2TechTile, a raised flooring system designed for data center and modular commercial construction, was recently classified as non-combustible under ASTM E136-19a. This industry standard test determines whether a material will ignite, burn, or release heat when exposed to high temperatures. The result reinforces confidence in the Gen 2 platform and builds on third-party certifications from ZS2’s Gen 1 materials, including Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Evaluation Service Reports (ESRs), High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) approvals, and Code Evaluation Reports (CERs).
The patented formulation and process of the domestic Gen 2 product line builds on the proven success of ZS2’s first-generation suite of climate-resilient materials. The expanded lineup continues to deliver fire, mold, water, and pest resistance, along with low-carbon performance and exceptional strength and durability:
- ZS2 TechStone Lightweight MgO stone facade, veneer, and cladding for durable, impact-resistant, fire-rated exterior applications
- ZS2TechTile 2×2 Non-combustible, low-carbon raised flooring system ideal for data center construction
- ZS2TechBoard 3×5 Backer Board Wet-rated interior magnesium cement board for tiled walls, showers, and utility spaces
- ZS2TechBoard 4×8 Structural Sheathing Lightweight, high-strength sheathing panel for walls and ceilings with proven fire and moisture resistance
While MgO has long been recognized for its potential, inconsistent quality and reliance on overseas supply chains have limited its use. ZS2 has solved both challenges. By formulating with Canadian industrial by-products and producing locally, Gen 2 materials offer consistent strength, fire performance, and supply chain reliability without the compromises of legacy materials.
This launch comes at a time when the construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, strengthen domestic supply chains, and build resilience against fire, flood, and extreme weather. Cement remains one of the most carbon-intensive materials globally, responsible for an estimated 7 percent of global CO? emissions. Magnesium cement offers a proven alternative at a 1/3 of the carbon footprint, but until now, has been held back by lack of access and localized production. ZS2 has changed that.
ZS2’s building materials give architects, designers, and builders the ability to meet evolving code and sustainability targets with the confidence of local production and performance-verified products. Supported by a growing portfolio of patents and certifications, ZS2 Technologies is delivering what the construction industry needs today and setting a new benchmark for what’s possible in the built environment.
With its Gen 2 platform now in place and full board production scaling through 2025, ZS2 is providing a stable, high-performance, climate-aligned alternative for projects across North America.
