THE BIG 5 INNOVATION IN PRECAST SUMMIT TO SET TURNING POINT FOR THE REGIONAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
Sunday, June 4, 2017 — Precast experts from around the world will gather in Dubai for the first Innovation in Precast Summit later this year, organisers of The Big 5 announced.
On 26 and 27 November at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Middle East’s largest construction industry exhibition will host a two-day event that will unveil the latest techniques and technology for the regional market, alongside a dedicated trade fair for suppliers of concrete products.
New precast concrete admixtures are revolutionising the construction industry, cutting costs and reducing both utility and energy consumption. While Dubai Metro line extensions’ precast blocks are being assembled in anticipation of Expo 2020, the application of precast concrete in the UAE built environment still offers immense opportunities, including an effective response to the booming demand for affordable housing.
According to Dr. Ulrich Lotz, CEO of BetonTage, conference partner of the Innovation in Precast Summit, “Precast concrete is superior not only in terms of controllability and quality consistency compared to in-situ construction: it also perfectly responds to BIM demands”. Precast is providing a growing number of innovative solutions that enhance both the strength and smartness of concrete. “Some of today’s major precast trends include the integration of features that respond to heating, cooling and acoustic demands,” Dr. Lotz added.
Precast concrete successfully meets the growing need for environmentally sustainable solutions within the construction industry too. “The integration of Ultra High Performance Concrete (UHPC) in the building process, for example, can improve resource efficiency by 50%, while drastically reducing CO2 emissions. Also, Titanium dioxid in the coverage cuts down NOx-emissions,” said Dr. Lotz. Other innovative solutions look at the integration of recycling materials within precast, thus creating a closed loop in the life-cycle of concrete.
Exploring the latest technologies, innovations, standards and regulations in precast, The Big 5’s Innovation in Precast Summit is expected to be a turning point in the development of the regional building sector. “The hot Middle Eastern weather definitely requires innovative solutions like the integration of cooling facilities within precast concrete in order to reduce electrical power consumption for air conditioning,” Dr. Lotz explained.
“The Summit will provide a unique opportunity for delegates to network at the region’s largest construction event and do business with carefully selected international concrete suppliers,” Josine Heijmans, The Big 5 Event Portfolio Director, stated. Supported by BetonTage, Europe's largest precast congress, The Big 5’s Innovation in Precast Summit is free to attend for all delegates. To know more and to register your interest, visit www.thebig5.ae/precastsummit.