Zero-Emission Floor Burnishers: Leading The Way In The Janitorial And Sanitation Industry

By Stuart Proctor, Vice President of Marketing at ONYX Systems, LLC

The Rise Of Polished Concrete As A Sustainable Flooring Option

Concrete, a mix of cement, water, and aggregates, has been fundamental in construction for millennia. Polished concrete emerged in the 1990s as a niche flooring option due to the development of specialized machines that could grind and polish surfaces to a reflective finish. Initially considered a cost-effective alternative to traditional materials like hardwood, carpet, and tile, polished concrete quickly became popular in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

This surge in popularity is attributed to polished concrete’s sleek look, durability, and low maintenance. Its energy-efficient thermal properties, resistance to allergens, and extended lifespan make it an eco-friendly choice. As sustainability becomes central to modern construction, polished concrete has grown in demand, especially for homes, retail spaces, and offices.

A Future Of Growth For Polished Concrete Flooring

The global decorative concrete market is expected to grow from USD 18.3 billion in 2023 to USD 24.3 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 5.8%. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for durable, sustainable flooring solutions across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. As builders and architects prioritize sustainable, cost-effective materials, decorative concrete—with its versatility and environmental benefits—continues to be a preferred option.

Evolving Maintenance Equipment: From Propane To Zero-Emission Solutions

With the rise of polished concrete, there has been a corresponding evolution in maintenance equipment, particularly in the shift from traditional machines to zero-emission alternatives. One of the most significant innovations is the development of lithium-ion battery-powered floor burnishers and polishers, which align with growing environmental concerns and regulations around indoor air quality.

These machines represent a cleaner and more efficient option for floor maintenance while meeting evolving environmental standards. The shift to zero-emission equipment is particularly pronounced in regions like California, where regulatory changes are driving the adoption of eco-friendly technologies, further transforming floor maintenance practices.

California’s Regulatory Shift: CARB And The Future Of Floor Burnishing

California’s regulatory landscape is a driving force behind the shift to zero-emission equipment. Starting on January 1, 2024, the state will no longer issue California Air Resource Board (CARB) emission certifications for Small Off-Road Engines (SORE), effectively banning the use of internal combustion engines for various industrial applications, including floor burnishers. This regulation is a clear indication of California’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving air quality. Contractors and facility managers will need to turn to electric or battery-powered equipment to remain compliant, with California’s decisions likely setting a precedent for other states to follow.

Traditional Burnishers: Proven Solutions With New Challenges

Historically, floor burnishing and polishing relied on either electric or propane-powered machines:

• Electric Burnishers: These machines offer consistent power but require constant connection to an outlet, limiting mobility and operational efficiency.
• Propane Burnishers: These have been favored for large, open spaces due to their power and mobility. They are not dependent on electrical sources, making them ideal for outdoor or well-ventilated environments. However, with CARB’s new regulations, propane machines will no longer be viable in certain settings, especially indoor areas where emissions are a concern.

Lithium-Ion Battery-Powered Burnishers: The Future Of Floor Maintenance

Lithium-ion battery-powered burnishers and polishers offer an ideal zero-emission solution, addressing the gaps left by electric and propane machines. They provide several key advantages:

1. Zero Emissions: These burnishers produce no emissions, making them compliant with stringent air quality regulations like CARB’s. They are perfect for indoor use, ensuring clean air in hospitals, schools, and offices.
2. Regulatory Compliance: With CARB no longer certifying propane equipment for many uses, lithium-ion burnishers meet the new standards without sacrificing performance.
3. Unrestricted Mobility: Unlike electric models tied to power outlets, battery-powered burnishers allow for flexible, unrestricted movement across large spaces.
4. Comparable Performance: Advances in lithium-ion technology have allowed these machines to deliver high-speed polishing on par with propane-powered equipment, making them suitable for maintaining polished concrete and other surfaces.
5. Reduced Noise: Lithium-ion machines are significantly quieter than propane models, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments like hospitals, offices, and hotels.

Sustainability And Practicality

The move toward lithium-ion battery-powered burnishers isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s also about sustainability. Polished concrete is already eco-friendly due to its durability and long lifespan, and the use of zero-emission maintenance equipment enhances its environmental benefits. These machines reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve indoor air quality, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.

For facility managers and contractors, lithium-ion burnishers and polishers offer a combination of sustainability, compliance, and performance. They are an attractive investment for organizations aiming to meet sustainability goals without sacrificing operational efficiency.

The Role Of Propane Burnishers In A Changing Landscape

While lithium-ion technology is gaining ground, propane-powered burnishers still play a role in regions not yet affected by CARB-like regulations. In large, open spaces with sufficient ventilation, propane machines remain effective and valuable. They offer high power and independent operation, making them reliable for certain settings. For areas where emission regulations are less stringent, propane burnishers continue to be a viable option for floor maintenance.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach For The Future

The janitorial and sanitation industry is undergoing a transformation driven by regulatory changes and sustainability goals. High-speed lithium-ion battery-powered burnishers offer a powerful, zero-emission alternative that meets the needs of professionals working in regions like California, where CARB regulations are reshaping the industry.

However, propane-powered burnishers still hold value for specific applications, particularly in areas where emissions regulations are less strict. Contractors and facility managers must strike a balance between embracing zero-emission technologies and utilizing proven propane equipment when appropriate.

As the industry evolves, these new technologies offer exciting opportunities to meet sustainability goals, comply with regulations, and maintain high standards of floor maintenance performance.

ONYX Systems is a cutting-edge manufacturer of floor scrubbers and concrete polishers, dedicated to enhancing productivity and maximizing cost savings through innovative, high-performance cleaning and polishing technology. Visit onyxsolutions.com.